DSW CANDIDATES

LaTonda Page

MSSW

Self-Care as a Catalyst: Black Women Leaders Evolution from Surviving to Thriving in the Academia

Abstract

This presentation offers a comprehensive examination of the historical journey of Black women leaders in academia, navigating the double jeopardy of racism and sexism. The research focus was on strategies developed by Black women leaders to navigate academia. By examining their strategies and coping mechanisms, the transformative power of resilience as a tool for overcoming adversity and achieving success was discovered. Utilizing Black Feminist Theory as the guiding framework, this researcher considers the complexities of Black women leaders experiences and advocates for culturally appropriate solutions. This capstone highlights the imperative to transition from surviving to thriving in academic leadership roles, emphasizing the transformative potential of self-care rooted in the theory of self-care for Black women. By crafting personalized self-care plans, tailored to their unique circumstances, this researcher envision empowering Black women leaders to cultivate resilience, well-being, personal and professional fulfillment. Through this lens, this research delineates how self-care practices have the power to not only transform individual lives but also has the potential to catalyze broader system changes within academia.

Bio

LaTonda Page is a Master level social worker that will be completing a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in May 2024. She completed her undergraduate studies in Sociology at Morehead State University and obtained her Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. Her research interests and capstone project focus on exploring the experiences and leadership roles of Black women in academia.

LaTonda serves as the Founder of The Healing Space for Black Women, a distinguished private practice specializing in telehealth mental wellness tailored specifically for Black women. She is deeply committed to promoting self-care, advocating for underrepresented communities, advancing social justice initiatives and the empowerment of Black women.

LaTonda is a versatile professional with a broad spectrum of experience, having worked with diverse populations ranging from children to geriatric individuals. Her extensive background includes roles in foster care, adoptions, family services, mental health, addictions counseling and substance abuse treatment. LaTonda has worked across various settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities, psychiatric hospitals, schools, courts and residential programs. Additionally, she has contributed her expertise as an Adjunct Professor.

With over 25 years of experience, LaTonda possesses a wealth of leadership and supervisory skills, effectively guiding teams towards successful goal attainment. Her commitment to community service is evident through involvement on the board of a transitional house for homeless women as well as her active volunteerism within her community. She is devoted to assisting people in transforming their lives.