Dr. Erika McDowell
Co-CEO of Black Wildflowers Fund
Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Erika L. McDowell is a former NJ governor’s award recipient and honors graduate of Howard University and New York University. Erika is an Equity Steward at Wildflower Schools, Co-CEO of the Black Wildflower Fund, and Inspired Minds Collide, LLC owner. She earned her EdD from Drexel University in Educational Leadership and Management in May 2020. Dr. McDowell has received the Association for Positive Behavior Support’s 2020 E.G. “Ted” Carr Early Career Practitioner Award and has been elected to the APBS Board of Directors for the 2021-2024 term, serving in the inaugural Racial and Ethnic Diversity Seat. Most recently, Erika was honored as one of Drexel’s 40 under 40 in 2022. She has served as an Executive Director of Professional Development and Director of PBIS/Youth Court for The School District of Philadelphia. Other positions previously held include assistant principal and teacher. Her in-depth experience includes restorative practices, equity, positive behavioral support, conflict resolution, classroom management, coaching, leadership development, and behavioral data support. She has also served as a clinical associate professor of educational leadership and policy at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo. Dr. McDowell continues to nurture the minds and gifts of leaders, teachers, and youth nationwide.
Overview
Although research shows that Black educators create positive outcomes for all children, they remain underrepresented and under-supported in the American education system. Black Wildflowers Fund aims to remove barriers for Black educators who want to pursue leadership pathways and design innovative schools—without compromising their freedom, power, identity, or financial security. We are creating a liberatory education movement that invests in the limitless potential of Black children and Black leaders through our grant programs and robust community of practice.
