Dr. Amanda Wilkerson

Dr. Amanda Wilkerson, serving as an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida—a Carnegie-rated Research 1 Institution nestled in the tourist epicenter of the United States, Orlando, Florida—embodies the nexus of academic rigor and social advocacy. Her pioneering research delves into K-20 student achievement with the overarching goal of elevating the human condition. Anchored in the College of Community Innovation and Education, within the Department of Educational Leadership and Higher Education, Dr. Wilkerson champions the cause of equity and excellence in higher education, fueled by a steadfast commitment to collaboration, cooperation, and community engagement.

To date, Dr. Wilkerson's academic footprint includes over 26 peer-reviewed publications, alongside her editorial contributions to seminal works published by premier presses, notably Springer's Palgrave Macmillan. Her profound influence on the academic trajectory and professional ascension of minoritized scholars—illuminated through her leadership in the Holmes Program—has been recognized with the Outstanding Researcher Award from NASPA Florida and the Outstanding Holmes Scholars Program accolade from AACTE. 

Dr. Wilkerson, a proud alumnus of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, earned both her Bachelor's in Political Science and a Master’s of Applied Social Sciences, with a focus in Political Science. Her distinguished academic journey is marked by the acquisition of three significant research grants, most notably a prestigious grant from the National Science Foundation as the principal investigator. This landmark study investigated the political socialization of Black Youth at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, with a lens on culturally relevant messaging. 

In her scholarly role,

Dr. Wilkerson transcends academic boundaries, orchestrating forums on crucial civic and scholastic issues, and pioneering equity-based pedagogical methodologies. Her research not only illuminates affirmative teaching strategies, educational policies, and community organizing tactics but also fortifies community partnerships, catalyzing student success. Dr. Wilkerson's meritorious service has been lauded with the Outstanding Service in Education award by the Holmes Scholars Association and the Diversity Scholarship by the Adult Higher Education Association. Further, as the national chair for the Urban Education Topical Action Group for AACTE, she mobilizes collaborative partnerships, offering indispensable services to underserved urban student demographics.

Dr. Wilkerson, the proud eldest daughter of retired educators, has rooted her life in Kissimmee, Florida. Beyond her professional pursuits, she finds joy on the golf course, delves into the biographies of world leaders, and embraces her role as a devoted aunt to six nephews. Her multifaceted life reflects a blend of academic dedication, personal passions, and familial love, underscoring the rich tapestry of experiences that she brings to her work and the world.