f you’re working to improve Black student outcomes, you already know the challenge: the system wasn’t designed with every learner in mind.

The question is—what do we do about it?

At this year’s State of Black Learning Conference, you won’t just talk about the problem. You’ll gain the tools to change it. And we’re honored to announce that Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings—one of the most influential scholars in education—will take the stage as a keynote speaker.

Meet the Expert Behind the Movement

Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings is a pioneering educator, researcher, and thought leader best known for developing the concept of culturally relevant pedagogy—a framework that has reshaped how educators approach teaching Black students and historically marginalized communities.

A Professor Emerita at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and former president of the American Educational Research Association (AERA), her work has influenced classrooms, school systems, and education policy across the country. Her research centers on equity, culturally responsive teaching, and improving academic success for Black students.

In short—if you’ve ever talked about equity in education, you’ve been influenced by her work.

Why This Matters for You

You don’t need more theory without application.

You need:

• Proven frameworks that actually work in real classrooms
• Insight into how to serve Black students more effectively
• Strategies you can implement immediately
• Connection with leaders committed to equity and excellence

Dr. Ladson-Billings brings exactly that. Her keynote will break down what culturally relevant teaching really looks like in practice—and how leaders can build systems that support it.

The Transformation

The State of Black Learning Conference is designed to move you from:

• Talking about equity → Implementing it
• Trying strategies → Using proven frameworks
• Working in isolation → Building aligned communities

This is where educators, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and advocates come together to turn intention into impact.

Your Next Step

If you care about Black student achievement, educational equity, and building systems that work—this is the room you need to be in.

Register now for the State of Black Learning Conference at stateofblacklearningconference.com

Because the future of Black learning won’t change on its own.
It will change because of who’s in the room—and what they decide to do next.