Shree Walker, EdD, is a distinguished author, educator, and motivational speaker specializing in resiliency and trauma. Since 2022, she has served as director of strategic leadership, motivational speaking, and professional development at Five Keys Schools and Programs. In this role, she problem-solves and collaborates to develop tactical procedures that promote educational stability and engages with diverse demographics from adolescents to seniors in various environments, including prisons, faith-based organizations, schools, and college groups. Additionally, she works to reduce disruptions for marginalized and vulnerable populations, particularly those in juvenile detention centers.
Moreover, Dr. Walker is the chief executive officer of Resilient Walker in Los Angeles, a position she has held since 2018, furthering her dedication to supporting educational stability and trauma-informed care. Previously, she was the special education and SELPA director at Rowland Unified School District from 2021 to 2022. From 2013 to 2021, she served as director of section 504 and special populations at Davidson County Public Schools and was an adjunct professor at Belmont University from 2014 to 2021.
Dr. Walker also worked as dean of students at Jere Baxter Middle School from 2012 to 2013 and as an exceptional education instructor at Davidson County Public Schools from 2004 to 2011. Her expertise spans leadership development, education, special education, ADA compliance, rehabilitation, alternative learning settings, and working with children in foster care and juvenile detention.
Dr. Walker laid a strong academic foundation, earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Fisk University in 2003, a master’s degree in special education from Lipscomb University in 2007, and an education specialist degree in administration and supervision from Tennessee State University in 2011. She went on to earn a Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction from Tennessee State University in 2017. She also holds certifications in diversity, equity, and inclusion from Cornell University, completed in 2024, and participated in the Public Education Leadership Project at Harvard University.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. Walke is deeply engaged in civic initiatives. She has served as a board member of the Sexual Assault Center since 2017 and has volunteered with the Charter School Review Board and Foster Care Review Board. Her accolades include membership in the Golden Key International Honour Society since 2016 and being named Teacher of the Year in 2011.
A published author, Dr. Walker’s works include “University Community Partnerships in Teacher Preparation: Changing Attitudes About Students with Disabilities” in the Journal of Public Scholarship in Higher Education in 2017, as well as “Resilient Walker,” “Trees, Dreams, Balloons & Things!,” “Secret Keeper,” and “Educate Me!: Changing Ourselves, Inspiring Others.”
Dr. Walker attributes her success to a blend of intrinsic motivation, faith, and a commitment to service. Her Christian upbringing instilled in her the values of possibility, perseverance, and the golden rule. Choosing not to have children, she instead channels her energy into creating a meaningful legacy, sharing her experiences to empower others. She believes her own challenges serve as a roadmap for others, helping them overcome emotional barriers and shift their perspectives.
In advising aspiring professionals, Dr. Walker encourages them to live a life that embodies the principle of dying empty, aka giving your all to your purpose without hesitation. She also emphasizes maximizing your potential, pursuing your dreams boldly, and leaving nothing undone. Additionally, she underscores being mindful of your inner dialogue and recognizing your resilience and strength.
Looking to the future, Dr. Walker plans to create an adult field day event to fund counseling services and college scholarships. She also envisions collaborating with Converse to establish the Resilient Walker award, honoring individuals who exemplify strength and perseverance. Through these initiatives, she aims to leave a lasting impact as a catalyst for “magical disruption,” inspiring others to embrace their full potential.