Dr. Nelson has devoted nearly 25 years of service to education and her research interests include race and equity, standards-aligned instruction, teacher preparation, organizational change, and executive leadership. She holds a Masters in School Administration from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro and a Doctorate of Education from North Carolina State University. Dr. Nelson taught middle and high school mathematics at Salem Academy, earning the Joel Weston Award for Faculty Excellence. Dr. Nelson recently served as the Executive Director for Learning and Teaching in Charlotte Mecklenburg School District, ensuring all students had the opportunity to engage with standards-aligned culturally relevant curriculum and practices. She earned the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools East Learning Community Principal of the Year distinction, with her students maintaining an average graduation rate of 91.1%. She presented at numerous national and international conferences. Dr. Nelson loves spending time with family, friends, and her dog.