Dr. Garland L. Thomas-McDavid

Dr. Garland L. Thomas-McDavid has a diverse and extensive work experience. Dr. Garland L. is currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer at Brooklyn Laboratory Charter School. Prior to this role, they held the position of Chief Member at Chief, a private network focused on empowering women in senior leadership positions. Dr. Garland L. also established Garland Leads LLC, where they worked as an Executive Coach, providing support and guidance to leaders and managers in various industries.

Dr. Thomas-McDavid has a background in education and leadership, having served as CEO/President of North Lawndale College Prep and Chief Executive Officer of Civitas Education Partners. Dr. Garland L. also held prominent positions in the field of education, including Founding Principal and Lead Principal at The Noble Network of Charter Schools, and Assistant Principal at Valley View School District and Indian Prairie School District.

In addition to their work in education, Dr. Thomas-McDavid has experience in the wellness and fitness industry, having worked as a Cycle Therapist at The Well Chicago Gym.

Throughout their career, Dr. Thomas-McDavid has demonstrated their commitment to leadership development, education, and empowering women in positions of power.

Dr. Garland L. Thomas-McDavid has an extensive education history. Dr. Garland L. obtained their Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership from DePaul University, where they studied from 2003 to 2009. Prior to that, they completed their Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Special Education at Florida State University, graduating in 2002. In 1997, they attended the University of Florida, although the degree obtained and field of study are not specified. Dr. Thomas-McDavid also holds an Associate of Arts degree in General Education from Santa Fe Community College, which they earned between 1995 and 1997.

In addition to their academic achievements, Dr. Thomas-McDavid has obtained several certifications. Dr. Garland L. is an ISBE Approved School Board Member Trainer, having completed the program offered by the Illinois State Board of Education in June 2021. In July 2018, they completed the MBTI Certification Program provided by CPP, Inc. Furthermore, they hold several licenses from the Illinois State Board of Education, including Licensed Administrator of School and District Level, Licensed Teacher of Students With Special Needs (No Limitations), and Licensed Director of Special Education. The specific dates of obtaining these licenses are not provided.

Recently, Dr. Thomas-McDavid has pursued further education at the Quinlan School of Business, Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Garland L. is currently working towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree as part of the Baumhart Scholar, Inaugural Cohort, starting in 2019.