President & Chief Executive Officer, Founder, Branch Alliance for Educator Diversity, Inc.
Dr. Cassandra Herring is President & Chief Executive Officer of the Branch Alliance for Educator Diversity (BranchED). Dr. Herring’s passion about equity-driven education reform fuels her work. Her career spans all levels of education, with professional experiences in Head Start thru higher education and leading state education policy. Prior to founding BranchED, Dr. Herring served as Dean of the School of Education and Human Development at Hampton University for nearly ten years. Dr. Herring holds the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Policy from Georgia State University, and Master of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.
What do you consider your organization's greatest achievement?
Modeling and fostering a “we over me” stance in educator preparation.
What is the greatest challenge our educators face?
Balancing passion, proficiency, and perseverance.
When and where were you learning at your best?
When I am curious and where I am learning with others.
What statistic have you recently heard that surprised you?
1 out of 3 students report that no teacher or adult at school believes that they will be a success.
What quality do you most admire in a school leader?
Inspired and inspiring action.
If you could change one thing about public education, what would it be?
Its reputation and perceived value.
What is your favorite children's storybook character?
Dora the Explorer.
What is your most treasured possession?
My wedding ring (worn on my left hand) and my father’s wedding ring (worn on my right hand).
Favorite motto or quote?
It’s really not about you.
What is your most marked characteristic?
My sense of loyalty.
Advice you would give to a young person interested in a profession in education?
Strive to create awe-inspiring, life-changing positive experiences for young people (that’s the fun part).