Dr. Jocelyn McDonald: Navigating the Digital Era of Education
On an early Thursday morning, my notifications chimed with the arrival of the fourth email I’d been waiting for—an eloquent, in-depth response from Dr. Jocelyn McDonald. As an Educational Technologist, Podcaster, Blogger, and founder of #TechItUp, LLC., Dr. McDonald’s journey in the realm of education is a testament to her unwavering dedication to impact education positively, and the email interview gave me a profound insight into her life and vision.
Dr. McDonald hails from a background where she witnessed the disparities in educational opportunities firsthand. She tells me, “Being the first college graduate in my family was a personal triumph and a testament to the power of resilience and perseverance. It shaped my perspective on the value of education in creating opportunities for individuals and communities.”
Though she did not initially aspire to be an educator, her stint as a substitute teacher during college sparked a passion for making a difference in students’ lives. “Witnessing the impact inspired me to continue in the field of education. I became driven by the belief that education serves as a catalyst for social change and empowerment,” she shares.
As a Black woman in the educational field, Dr. McDonald has faced her share of trials and tribulations. “Navigating implicit biases, confronting systemic barriers, and a lack of representation were some significant challenges,” she reveals. However, the hurdles only fueled her determination to challenge stereotypes and change the narrative of Black women in educational leadership roles.
Her journey is adorned with several triumphs—progressing from a teacher to the Director of Digital Learning for a school district, founding her educational consulting company, #TechItUp, LLC., and creating her online platform, GrowWithDrMac.com. “Through my podcast and books, I amplify the voices of underrepresented educators, ensuring their perspectives are heard in educational technology,” she says.
Dr. McDonald’s dedication to innovation, equity, and empowerment in education is palpable. “My work as an educator inspires and empowers future generations, fostering innovation, equity, and inclusion in education. My aim is a legacy of empowerment, representation, and positive educational change, resonating for years.”
She advises other educators navigating their path to embrace challenges as an opportunity for growth and learning. “Stay true to your passion and purpose, and never underestimate the power of perseverance… Remember that every challenge you face is an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience and strength,” she encourages.
As an influential voice, Dr. McDonald shares her journey in the Centering Our Voices anthology, a collection of stories and insights from educators of underrepresented backgrounds. In her chapter, she shares her journey in education, shedding light on the challenges and roadblocks she encountered as she advanced in her career. “My chapter is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and resilience in overcoming adversity and effecting positive change,” she elucidates.
Ultimately, Dr. McDonald wants readers to walk away knowing the importance of walking in their purpose, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and giving themselves permission to be great while making a difference. “Through my story, I aim to inspire and empower others to advocate for themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and drive meaningful change in their spheres of influence.”
The Centering Our Voices anthology, she believes, has the potential to effect significant change in the education community by providing diverse perspectives, insights, and strategies for creating more inclusive and equitable learning environments.
Connect with Dr. McDonald through her website, DrJocelynMcDonald.com, or her social media channels: X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook @DrJEMcDonald. To order a copy of the book, one can visit DrJocelynMcDonald.com. “I look forward to engaging with readers and continuing the conversation,” she signs off.
