Rachel L. Ivory, PhD, is a trailblazer in training and education, building a career as the owner of Ivory Publishing LLC in California.Since 2024, she has been dedicated to writing for children, creating the “I Want To Be” series to inspire young minds to explore various professions. Her expertise in motivational training and education is further exemplified by her long-standing role as a logistics training analyst with the United States Postal Service, a position she has held since 1988.
Dr. Ivory’s career also includes serving as a certified mediator with the Supreme Court of Virginia and her military service as a senior instructor in the U.S. Army from 1988 to 2002. She laid a strong academic foundation, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Radford University in 2007, followed by a master’s degree in public administration from the same institution in 2009. She went on to complete a research PhD in public policy and public administration from Walden University in 2017.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Ivory has been actively involved in civic organizations and community service. She served as an alumni ambassador for Walden University from 2010 to 2021 and volunteered with the Conflict Resolution Center’s restorative justice program from 2010 to 2013. Her commitment to giving back is further demonstrated through her volunteer work at The Rescue Mission of Roanoke from 2003 to 2011.
Dr. Ivory’s writing career includes authoring 21 books, showcasing her dedication to sharing knowledge and inspiring others. Since 2024, she has published the “I Want To Be” series under Ivory Publishing LLC. She also contributed to academic literature with her 2017 publication, “Combat Service and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as a Violent Crimes Predictor in OEF/OIF Veterans,” which was published through Walden University’s Scholar Works.
Reflecting on her path, Dr. Ivory’s passion for education and mentorship is deeply rooted in her love for children, especially her seven grandchildren. Inspired by her grandmother’s emphasis on the value of education, she pursued degrees in criminal justice and public administration, choosing the latter due to her extensive experience in government service. She has dedicated 36 years to the United States Postal Service and served 14 years in the military, having entered both in 1988. In the Army Reserve, she specialized in finance, accounting, and personnel retention, focusing on keeping service members engaged. Early in her military career, she was attached to an instructional unit, where she discovered her passion for training and mentorship, a commitment that has remained central to her professional journey.
Throughout her career, Dr. Ivory has been honored with numerous accolades. She has received multiple certificates of appreciation from the United States Postal Service, including recognition from senior leadership in 2024, 2021, and 2019. In 2019, she was named employee engagement ambassador of the year. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion was recognized with the national diversity achievement nomination in 2003 and 2005, as well as diversity achievement awards in 2000, 2003, 2005, and 2007. She has also been recognized by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., receiving the educational advancement distinction award in 2014 and 2018. Her military service was honored with the army achievement medal in 1993, 1999, and 2000, along with multiple letters of commendation and honor graduate distinctions from the U.S. Army.
Deeply rooted in her community and family life, Dr. Ivory is the proud mother of one son and one stepson. She draws inspiration from her family, particularly her seven grandchildren, who fuel her passion for children’s education. Her grandmother’s encouragement to pursue higher education has been a guiding influence throughout her life.
Looking to the future, Dr. Ivory intends to continue writing and expanding her literary contributions. While she remains focused on her current projects, she is open to exploring new topics that capture her interest upon retirement. Her dedication to education and writing ensures that she will continue to make a lasting impact on future generations.