Who are you and what are your practitioner sites?
John S. Yormie, Jr is a development practitioner, emerging diplomat, author, and researcher with extensive experience in governance, education, and civic engagement in Liberia and the United States. As a co-founder of the Liberia Research and Development Networks (LRDN), he has led initiatives on digital transformation, youth empowerment, and educational reform. His passion for positive storytelling and public policy intersects in his work, which often explores themes of national identity, resilience, and institutional rebuilding. When he is not writing or facilitating community projects, John enjoys mentoring young leaders and advocating for inclusive development across Africa( particularly west Africa) and the United States.
He is a Program Coordinator at the African Community Education, Worcester MA, and a Board Member of the Crocodile River Music NGO in Worcester MA.
What inspired you to join the Doctoral Program in Transformative Education?
I am particularly motivated by the philosophy of Clark University to empower the communities they are situated and promote diversity. The partnerships they have built to support community partners and care givers stand out and it is my belief that the Doctoral Program in Transformative Education manifests these values which would enhance achieving my goal of increasing impactful work in the areas of social justice.
What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
It is my hope that as we wrestle with different theories and themes while building praxis projects, with the support of faculty and peers, to develop actionable research-based strategies which can: 1) Improve educational equity in the U.S. and Liberia, 2) Identify strategies to promote and sustain relationships with teachers and students at out- of- school programs, 3) Influence policy and community practices, and 4) Strengthen my non – profit leadership skills.