Department of Education

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia 
Education: Spelman College: B.A. in Political Science, with an Education Studies minor, Class of 2024

Alaira Blackwell is from Atlanta, Georgia. She is a graduate of Spelman College. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Education Studies. During her undergraduate studies, Alaira served with U.S. Congress members, Atlanta’s City Council members, nonprofit organizations, and neighboring schools where she advocated for equitable resources and culturally responsive principles.

Alaira’s volunteerism and professional experience inspired her to spearhead a capstone project, the Civic Education Project, which educates high school students on historical events, current issues, and government systems. The Civic Education Project empowers youth by equipping them with the skills and knowledge to be the next generation of changemakers and critical voters. They are ultimately well-informed and well-prepared to make a difference in their communities and on the world. 

Alaira’s aspiration to address inequities within the education system is steadfast. Education transformed Alaira’s life, propelling her from a high-poverty neighborhood where she grew from troublemaker stigmas to now, a changemaker. Education justice is personal for her; education can change lives, just as it changed hers amidst adversity.

Alaira’s career goal is to foster positive change while dismantling the racial and economic barriers embedded in the American education system. She envisions herself ultimately in Education Leadership and a Nonprofit Administrative position to transform classrooms and foster an inclusive space where students can make mistakes and still flourish.