Whitney Whiting-Gonzalez

Interim Director of Partner Programs

Black educators provide the validation, care, and guidance that many students cannot find anywhere else.

In this episode, Whitney Whiting-Gonzalez shares her journey from aspiring Wall Street professional to educator and mentor advocate. A proud Bronx native, Whitney reflects on how witnessing the realities of the financial industry inspired her to pivot from economics toward education, where she began teaching financial literacy to Black and Brown students. She discusses the importance of representation, the challenges Black educators face in having their expertise recognized, and why creating opportunities for students remains at the center of her work.

I want my legacy to be that I opened doors for others.

Whitney offers a candid perspective on the systemic barriers impacting Black students, from inequitable resources to broader issues of access and opportunity. She shares the joy of watching students gain confidence through financial literacy and the pride of seeing them apply that knowledge in their own lives and families. Grounded in mentorship, community, and service, Whitney’s story is a powerful reminder that education is not only about information—it is about empowerment, advocacy, and ensuring the next generation has the access and tools to thrive.

Kenneth Brown, Jr

Administrator, University Center for Access and Success

Black educators have always been innovators, storytellers, and builders of community.

Kenneth Brown, Jr is an administrator with the Center for Access and Success. This week, he shares his journey into higher education and his passion for supporting first-generation college students. Inspired by his mother, a preschool teacher, and the mentors who guided him along the way, Kenny reflects on the transformative power of representation, mentorship, and belonging. He discusses why Black educators remain essential in helping students navigate systems that were not designed for them, and why it is critical to determine which stories will be preserved and taught to future generations.

A diploma is important, but community is what helps students thrive.

Kenny reflects on the challenges facing students, emphasizing the importance of help-seeking behaviors, support networks, and authentic relationships. From celebrating graduates at first-generation stole ceremonies to creating spaces where students feel seen and valued, his work centers on care, encouragement, and empowerment. His vision for education embraces multiple pathways to success and leaves a lasting reminder that the greatest impact educators make is often found in simply showing up, listening, and believing in their students.

“Culture must be supported by structure…”

Cheryl-Lyn Bentley-Harmon

Principal of Bentley Harmon PLLC, Former High School Teacher

https://www.harmoncompliancesolutions.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-lyn-bentley-harmon/

Black educators matter—but supporting and retaining them requires more than recruitment.

How has your life changed since 2020? In this special follow-up episode, educator-turned-attorney Cheryl-Lyn Bentley-Harmon returns to the Black Educators Matter Project 500 Podcast to explore the evolving legal landscape surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. Drawing from her experiences as a teacher, civil rights investigator, and founder of Bentley Harmon PLLC, Cheryl-Lyn unpacks the challenges schools face as DEI efforts come under increased scrutiny and explains what educational institutions can legally do to recruit, support, and retain diverse educators.

Equity is not a slogan—it’s a system.

Cheryl-Lyn shares why Black educators remain critical to student success and school culture, while highlighting the often-overlooked barriers that drive many out of the profession. From workplace climate and mentorship to leadership accountability and policy design, she offers practical strategies for building equitable environments where educators can thrive. This timely conversation is a call to action for school leaders committed to moving beyond performative statements toward lasting, meaningful change.