N.j. mitchell
educator. capacity builder. coach.
“There must exist a paradigm, a practical model
for social change that includes an understanding of ways
to transform consciousness that are linked to efforts to
transform structures.” –bell hooks

The big picture
I am passionate about education and best practices in leadership. It is my fundamental belief that diversity, equity, and inclusion are key elements to sustaining individual and institutional impact.Through my experiences, I have grown to enjoy educational management and operating in the non-profit sector. I am skillful at strategic thinking (vision & strategy), turning concepts into reality (execution), building and developing teams (management), galvanizing others for a common cause (influencing), and building lifelong partners (cultivation & stewardship). However, I ultimately seek to strengthen others in their roles as leaders. Think we'd be a fit? Learn more & contact me below!
Professional History
OWNER, NJM COACHING & CONSULTING
April 2018-Present
Individual and team coaching and consulting services for those looking for leadership development or business expertise. See tab above for further detail.
Executive Director, Teach For America MEMPHIS
June 2019-Present
Set vision and direction for region that maximizes the leadership impact of a network exceeding 700 members in the education reform space. Manage diverse partnerships and relationships with schools, districts, philanthropists, and additional mission-aligned organizations. Annually raise and manage $6 million budget to fund local and national efforts.
Vice President of The Collective, Teach For America
August 2017 - December 2018
Lead our organization's National Alumni of Color Association, The Collective, in pursuit of elevating the voices, experiences, and perspectives of leaders of color while shaping the broader movement toward educational equity. In this role I also work to ensure leaders of color remain aware of the cutting edge leadership needs in their roles as school and system leaders.
Administrator, G. C. Hawley Middle School
August 2013 - May 2014
As a middle school administrator, I supported teachers with instructional needs and professional development plans as well as assisted with the management of school culture and execution of the School Improvement Plan.
Executive Director, Teach For America NC Piedmont Triad
April 2014 - August 2017
Charted our course in the region as founding executive director, to maximize our impact in the short and long run, by articulating a clear vision and plan that maximizes the power of our alumni, increases corps member performance on students’ achievement and leadership, and builds sustaining partnerships with others in the fight for education equity
Educational Experience
Vanderbilt University
2019-Present
Doctor of Education in Leadership & Learning in Organizations
North Carolina State University
2012-2014
Master of School Administration - Northeast Leadership Academy
North Carolina A&T University
2005 - 2008
Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Mass Communication |
Honors: Summa Cum Laude Graduate, Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, Alpha Chi Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society