Dr. derria byrd has displayed a passion for actively engaging in diversity and inclusion through her teaching, research and service. In the classroom, she develops tools to help undergraduate and graduate students critically analyze equity issues within a justice-oriented framework. She also collaborates with colleagues in public schools, universities and community education programs to promote activism.

“Dr. byrd has consistently promoted and advocated for a welcoming environment, contributed to raising awareness about diversity and inclusion within Marquette and made a significant impact on the Marquette community with her unyielding focus on diversity and inclusion,” said Dr. Jody Jessup-Anger, professor and chair of educational policy and leadership. “Because of her consistent efforts drawing attention to diversity and inclusion, our students, department, university and broader higher education community are improved.”

In 2021, byrd used the Faculty Grants for Diverse Course Development Program to redesign the content of “EDUC 4000: Advanced Educational Inquiry” to include the “Advocacy Project,” in which students identify and research an educational issue related to diversity, equity and inclusion. In the fall of 2020, byrd created “Solidarity Circles” in collaboration with colleagues to provide undergraduate and graduate students space to share their experiences.

“Though it feels uncomfortable to be recognized in this way for simply doing what I think is right, I am thankful to the colleagues who supported my nomination and who selected me for the award,” byrd said. “I am honored to accept this recognition on behalf of those who work daily, in small individual ways and those who engage in organized, collective action to help make Marquette and other educational spaces more justice-oriented in policy, practice and belief.”