GAMECHANGERS
Meet Ramona Curtis
Ramona Curtis, MA, currently serves as the Director of Workforce Programming at Tulsa Community College and adjunct faculty, where she oversees the Prison Education Program and offers strategic leadership to faculty and staff in creating cutting-edge workforce initiatives.
Ramona Curtis
Director of Workforce Develpment, BA UT at Arlington, MA and Doctoral Student, Prairie View A&M University
Ramona Curtis, MA, currently serves as the Director of Workforce Programming at Tulsa Community College and adjunct faculty, where she oversees the Prison Education Program and offers strategic leadership to faculty and staff in creating cutting-edge workforce initiatives. With a wealth of experience, Ms. Curtis collaborates closely with businesses, industries, educational institutions, and external organizations to ensure that programs align seamlessly with current workforce demands.
As an adjunct, she teaches sociology and business management. In addition to her role as a director of workforce programming, she holds a respected position as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant for Higher Education Innovation and is an independent DEI Consultant.
Ramona's DEI projects have included project director for A Grassroots Attempt to Dismantle the Most Segregated Hour in America, “Church Swap,” Undoing Racism, Public Deliberation, Intergroup Dialogue, Difficult Dialogues, and Living Room Conversations. Over her career, she has served on various boards. She currently serves on the Junior Achievement of Oklahoma Board of Directors.
She also serves on her church’s Religion & Race and Church and Society Committees and is often featured nationally as a keynote speaker on leadership, racial reconciliation, leadership and service, workforce programming, and other professional development issues. She has received numerous awards for her DEI and leadership efforts.
In your field or industry, what progress have you seen regarding gender equality, and what areas still need improvement?
In the higher education sector, strides have been made in advancing gender equality, marked by an increased presence of women in leadership positions. However, the persistence of gender pay gaps signals an ongoing concern. Despite the emergence of cracks in the glass ceiling, it is far from shattered. Subtle yet impactful obstacles, including stereotypes and biases, disproportionately affect women, particularly those of color.
The workplace culture within higher education can hinder women's productivity and stifle their voices. The tokenism of women of color intensifies disparities in recognition and credit, with initiatives I've spearheaded sometimes being appropriated by men or even white women. These experiences serve as valuable lessons in the academic realm, motivating me to seek solutions that foster a sense of belonging and genuine equity.
In your opinion, what can individuals, communities, and governments do to contribute to meaningful and lasting prison reform efforts?
In my view, fostering meaningful and enduring prison reform requires concerted efforts from individuals, communities, and governments. The societal stigma associated with being a felon casts a lasting shadow on those who have served their time and seek a fresh start. Addressing this issue involves tackling various facets, but two crucial areas stand out to me. First, there is a pressing need to enhance educational opportunities for individuals with a felony record. As Nelson Mandela aptly noted, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Offering post-secondary educational programs within the prison can equip individuals with the tools they need to reintegrate into society successfully. Second, a comprehensive focus on well-thought-out reentry programs is imperative. These programs should be purposeful and tailored to the unique circumstances of each individual upon their discharge. By combining educational opportunities with personalized reentry support, individuals exiting the prison system stand a better chance of securing employment, housing, healthcare, and other essential services. This approach seeks to empower individuals with the skills and resources necessary for successful reintegration into society, fostering a more rehabilitative and supportive criminal justice system.
Tell us about your experience at Prairie View A&M, a historically black (HBCU) university in Texas.
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) has been a cornerstone of empowerment and growth in my academic and personal journey. My educational journey at PVAMU has been nothing short of transformative. Pursuing both my master’s degree and now my doctorate at PVAMU has not only shaped my academic pursuits but has also contributed significantly to my personal and cultural growth. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like PVAMU play a pivotal role in offering a unique cultural validation that may sometimes be missing at other institutions.
The importance of representation cannot be overstated. It creates a distinctive and empowering experience, fostering a sense of belonging that is truly transformational. One of the most rewarding aspects of my academic journey has been the opportunity to conduct research under the guidance of incredible professors, such as Dr. Fred Bonner. The mentorship and support provided by distinguished faculty members at PVAMU have not only enriched my academic pursuits but have also opened doors to new perspectives and possibilities. PVAMU, with its commitment to excellence, provides a stage for a rich educational experience deeply rooted in the Black Excellence tradition.
The institution's emphasis on academic rigor, coupled with a genuine thirst to go beyond the classroom and engage with a multicultural world, has equipped me with the skills and perspectives necessary to navigate the complexities of today's global society. In conclusion, HBCUs like PVAMU continue to stand as beacons of cultural affirmation, fostering an environment where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. My time at PVAMU has undoubtedly shaped me into a more informed, empowered, and culturally aware individual, making me confident in making a meaningful impact in the world.
What's something that may have influenced your decision to enter your field?
My decision to pursue a career in higher education has been shaped by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of education, a commitment to human relations work, and a strong sense of purpose to contribute positively to a multicultural and diverse world.My career, predominantly in higher education with some experience in criminal justice, is seen as an opportunity to engage in meaningful work that impacts the aspirations of emerging young leaders across various academic disciplines.
The inspiration I derive from working on issues that shape the future workforce, individuals poised to make a significant impact on the world, speaks to my dedication to fostering positive change. My role extends beyond academia, allowing me to speak into the lives of individuals at crossroads, guiding them as they navigate transformations and strive to restore community trust. Notably, my career paths have consistently reflected a commitment to challenging the status quo and promoting positive change, even in the face of resistance.
The multicultural aspect of my work is a testament to your belief in the importance of embracing diversity and creating understanding in a world that sometimes prefers the familiar. My faith in God serves as a guiding force, providing the strength and wisdom to navigate challenges and discern how to effectively use my voice and heart professionally. The emphasis on bridging a greater understanding aligns with my commitment to addressing blind spots and compelling the "fittest" in the community to recognize and respond to the calling of God in our society.
