College of Education and Human Development

Dr. LaSonja Roberts

2021 Multicultural Advocate For Promotion of Diversity Award Recipient

LaSonja Roberts, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of educational leadership at Western Michigan University, completing her third year with the university.

She has had the privilege to serve as a teacher, administrator, and district and university consultant in California, Mississippi, and Florida. Her research agenda focuses on leader preparation and retention, specifically a leader’s ability to create environments that foster learning and well-being for educators and students.

Her recent publications include:

Agosto, V., Roberts, L., Valcarlos Migueliz**, M., Nkrumah, T., Grosland, T, Bratspis**, A., Warren*, N. & Reynolds*, E. (2021). Jokering bodies. International Review of Qualitative Research (IRQR). In the special Issue. Critical qualitative inquiry: Justice matters in en(tangled) times. Co-host edited by G. S. Cannella, M. Koro, M. F. Huckaby, J. Wolgemuth (Eds.). Grosland, T., & Roberts, L. (2021).

Leading with/in emotion states: The criticality of political subjects and policy debates in educational leadership on emotions. Policy Futures in Education, 19(1), 97–110. https://doi.org/10.1177/1478210320940136

Quote from nomination

"Dr. Roberts is involved in numerous efforts to promote diversity to positively impact the environment of our college, students, educators and others across our region and country."

- Dr. Louann Bielein Palmer, nomination letter

Acceptance speech

"I am honored to receive the 2021 College of Education and Human Development Multicultural Advocate Award for the Promotion of Diversity. While social justice is a way of life for me, the journey is easier when my colleagues and students are supportive. Thank you for fostering the environment, thoughtfully contributing to the conversation, and engaging in the work. A special thank you to Dr. Bierlein-Palmer for the nomination and to the faculty and students who wrote letters of support."

- Dr. LaSonja Roberts

Back to 2020 and 2021 award recipients

Award recipients

About the College of Education and Human Development

As the cornerstone of Western Michigan University, the College of Education and Human Development continues to build upon its rich tradition of excellence by facilitating the preparation and growth of pre K-12 teachers, human service professionals, innovative designers, and health and wellness specialists. Learn more about the programs offered from the College of Education and Human Development.