Kelly E. Slay, Ph.D.

Professor, Public Speaker, and Consultant in Washington, DC

Kelly E. Slay, Ph.D.

Professor, Public Speaker, and Consultant in Washington, DC

First generation student. Education scholar. Mentor and motivational speaker. Lover of Detroit, Michigan football (Go Blue!), tennis, coffee, self-help books and long walks on beautiful fall mornings. I am passionate about improving access, diversity and equity in K-20 education through research and practice.

Rooted in a multi-disciplinary background in psychology, public policy and K-16 education, my research program explores diversity and equity issues in various educational contexts--particularly the outcomes and experiences of Black students. I examine undergraduate recruitment practices and prospective Black students’ perceptions of campus racial climate and broader racial tensions as factors shaping their college enrollment decisions. Related to this, my research also addresses how enrollment management strategies (e.g., undergraduate recruitment and admissions) are used to meet institutional diversity goals and the implications for various constituencies (e.g., students, staff, faculty). In a final area of my research program, I study the experiences of women and students of color in STEM (at the undergraduate and graduate level) and the organizational policies and practices that support diversity, equity and inclusion in these disciplinary contexts.

My accomplishments in education have been recognized by numerous organizations including the Center for Education of Women, the Bouchet Graduate Honor Society and the University of Michigan Black Alumni, among others. Check out my LinkedIn page to learn more about my educational and professional background.

While the various facets of my role as an academic are enough to keep me busy, mentoring undergraduate and graduate students remains central to my purpose. Drawing lessons from past professional experiences in policy and education and my own humble beginnings as a first-generation college student, I am passionate about helping others from similar backgrounds achieve their education and career goals.

And when I'm not thinking about all of this scholarly stuff, I love to hike trails, try vegan recipes, travel, and spend time with family and friends--especially my 15 nieces and nephews:)

  • Work
    • Vanderbilt University
  • Education
    • University of Michigan