Dr. Taryn Givan: A Beacon of Transformative Change in Education
Deep in the heart of Texas, in a town called Texarkana, a transformational educator is redefining the landscape of teaching and leading. Dr. Taryn Givan is a devoted wife, mother, GiGi, family member, and friend. This powerhouse woman, with a love for reading, writing, music, dance, travel, and retail therapy, is a beacon of transformative change in the educational arena.
“Galatians 6:9 propels me each day, ‘And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not,'” she shares, revealing the source of her unyielding motivation. It’s a verse that encapsulates the essence of her calling: a commitment to unceasing effort in the pursuit of good, knowing that the fruits of her labor will manifest in due time.
Surprisingly, Dr. Givan didn’t always have her heart set on education. As a freshman in college, she dreamt of pediatrics until a prophetic phone call from her high school principal, the late Don Rader, redirected her path. She chuckles as she recalls, “He laughed when I told him I wanted to be a pediatrician, then he told me, ‘No, you’re not. You belong in the classroom.'” Rader’s belief in her potential led her to observe classrooms and recognize her destined place within them.
Dr. Givan’s educational journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. She holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from the University of Central Arkansas, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University-Texarkana, a Principal Certification in Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Clark Atlanta University. Her extensive 23-year career in education spans roles as a teacher, assistant principal, turnaround principal, and adjunct professor. Presently, she stands as the Founder & CEO of Divergent Educational Consulting, LLC, and Contractor Operations Manager for BetterLesson, making her mark in educational consulting and technology.
When asked about educators’ significant challenges today, Dr. Givan didn’t hesitate to pinpoint the glaring issue of pay inequity and underfunding in American education. “Those entrusted with shaping the minds of future generations are consistently undervalued and underpaid,” she states with conviction. Yet, she remains hopeful, asserting that “addressing this challenge requires a shift in national priorities and a commitment to investing in education as a cornerstone of societal progress.”
Dr. Givan has faced her fair share of obstacles as a Black woman in education. One of the most pervasive being microaggressions, those subtle yet potent comments or actions that undermine her professionalism and competence. However, she remains unyielding in the face of such adversity, refusing to conform to traditional educational standards that do not wholly embrace or celebrate her unique identity and perspective.
“My support system has been my rock,” Dr. Givan shares. She draws strength from colleagues and mentors who understand and empathize with her experiences. Prayer serves as her solace, providing spiritual fortitude that enables her to persevere through adversity. But above all, the unwavering commitment to impact change has been her driving force, a beacon guiding her through the stormy seas of challenge.
Reflecting on her journey, she shares her triumphs. “Hearing from former students who express how I’ve influenced their growth and being invited to their personal and professional milestones is a reward beyond measure,” she says. Recognition in the form of prestigious awards such as the 2017 A.E. Alton & Mott Mosley Excellence in Education Award, the 2020 Tribute to African-American Women Award, and the 2022 feature on the Wall of Heroes mural in downtown Texarkana by artist Darlene Taylor, serve as humbling reminders of her positive influence on her community.
One of her most significant triumphs was her involvement in a successful school turnaround effort. “Being part of a team that transformed a school into a thriving learning environment is a testament to my dedication and effectiveness as an educator,” she says with justified pride. Quoting educator and author Cornelius Minor, she adds, “Inclusivity in the context of teaching and learning does not simply mean that you are allowed to be present here. To be included means we have changed ourselves and our practices to make here a place where you can thrive.”
As a Black woman educator, Dr. Givan believes her work can have a lasting impact by embodying and championing the tenets of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) in education. “In today’s increasingly diverse and interconnected world, DEIB principles are more critical than ever in dismantling systemic barriers and creating equitable opportunities for all,” she affirms. Her unique perspective and lived experiences allow her to serve as a role model for marginalized communities, advocating for their rights and needs.
For those considering a career in education, Dr. Givan’s advice is rooted in her personal journey and the foundation of her business. She urges aspiring educators to value being “Different, Progressive, and Out-The-Box,” and to consistently seek innovation and collaborate with other educators to design impactful lessons that meet the social-emotional needs of all students. Her belief is firmly grounded in Les Brown’s quote, “No one rises to low expectations.”
Dr. Givan’s company, Divergent Educational Consulting, LLC, offers services including personalized 1:1 coaching sessions, professional development workshops, and engaging speaking engagements. She aims to partner with individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential and achieve transformative outcomes.
One of Dr. Givan’s latest initiatives, the Centering Our Voices anthology, is a unique project that aims to highlight the distinctive experiences, challenges, and triumphs of Black women within all sectors of education. “Centering Our Voices: The Brilliance, Persistence, and Significance of Black Women Educators serves to increase awareness and understanding among educators, policymakers, and the general public about the challenges and triumphs of Black women educators, fostering empathy, support, and allyship.” Dr. Givan shares that by actively promoting DEIB principles within educational institutions and advocating for systemic change, they seek to inspire current and aspiring educators to prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in their own practice. In short, the anthology serves as a platform for cultural perspective, providing a valuable data source for researchers investigating the intersectional experiences of Black women educators.
Dr. Givan’s chapter in the anthology delves into her journey, shaped by her creative giftedness and divergent mindset. She hopes to inspire readers to embrace their uniqueness, harness their creativity, and persevere through life’s challenges. In doing so, they can unlock their full potential and make a meaningful impact on the world around them.
Juggling several roles and responsibilities, Dr. Givan maintains a balance by adhering to a meticulously organized digital calendar, which she dubs the key to her efficiency and effectiveness. “If it’s not added to my digital calendar, it didn’t or won’t happen.” She is aware of her capacity and makes deliberate choices about the projects and opportunities she takes on.
Looking ahead, Dr. Givan envisions continuing her work within the educational technology space and embracing opportunities to present at conferences and travel for her business. She plans to leverage technology’s potential and face-to-face collaboration to share insights, best practices, and innovative ideas to advance education on a global scale.
Readers can connect with Dr. Givan via email at divergenteducationalconsulting@gmail.com or through her website at www.divergenteducationalconsulting.com. They can also follow Divergent Educational Consulting, LLC on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and insights or connect with her on LinkedIn at Dr. Taryn Chambers Givan.
