Tonya Perry, Ph.D.The National Council of Teachers of English has recognized a University of Alabama at Birmingham professor with a prestigious award for her contributions to promotion equity and dismantling racism.
Tonya Perry, Ph.D., professor and executive director of GEAR UP Alabama and Red Mountain Writing Project, was honored as the 2020 recipient of the Advancement of People of Color Leadership award. The award was presented to her during a virtual ceremony Oct. 21.
Each year, this award is given to promote and support the advancement of communities of color in the profession and contribute to promoting equity and dismantling racism. This award is bestowed only when the APCL Selection Committee decides a nomination warrants presentation of the award. Perry is the 13th professional to receive it.
A tireless advocate for students and educators who are often denied a voice, Perry works with and for educators and communities to develop programs and initiatives that uplift historically marginalized peoples. For this work, she has been awarded a multimillion-dollar grant to serve the community.
“Being a leader is about creating just and equitable opportunities for others and forging pathways with the goal to lead to better outcomes,” said Perry.