Gisella Aitken-Shadle Edd

Gisella Aitken-Shadle, EdD, has an extensive work experience history. Currently, they serve as the Chief of Equity and Human Rights at the City of Dubuque, Iowa, starting in August 2022. Prior to this, they held the role of District Adult Education and Literacy Development Director at Northeast Iowa Community College from May 2015 to August 2022. Before that, they worked as the ELL Coordinator at LAYC Career Academy from October 2014 to May 2015. Gisella also served as an Adult Education and Literacy Academy, ESOL, and Spanish HiSET Instructor at Northeast Iowa Community College from September 2013 to August 2014. Gisella was the Hispanic Ministry Director at Saint Patricks Catholic Church from May 2011 to September 2013. Lastly, they held the position of Director of Hispanic Ministry at the Archdiocese of Dubuque from August 2010 to February 2012.

Gisella Aitken-Shadle, EdD, pursued their education in a well-rounded manner throughout their career. Gisella obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in International/Global Studies from the University of Dayton in 2003. In 2005, they completed their Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degree from the same institution.

To further enhance their skills and expertise, Gisella earned a French language and Culture Certificate from the Université catholique de Lyon in 2007. In 2015, they attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where they received a certificate in Educating Immigrant Students.

Driven by a passion for educational leadership, Gisella embarked on their Doctor of Education (EdD) degree in Leadership for Organizations at the University of Dayton, starting in 2019. Gisella'sstudies in this field are anticipated to conclude in 2022.

In addition to their formal education, Gisella has also pursued various certifications to complement their academic achievements. Gisella obtained an ELT Leadership Management Certificate from the TESOL International Association in 2015. Later, in 2019, they became a Certified Speaker, Coach, and Trainer through the John Maxwell Team. In 2022, they became a Mental Health First Aider, completing training from Mental Health First Aid Trainings. Most recently, in 2023, Gisella obtained a Corporate Trainer certification from the John Maxwell Team.

Gisella Aitken-Shadle, EdD, has diligently expanded their knowledge and expertise through a combination of academic pursuits and additional certifications, positioning herself as a highly qualified educator and leader in their field.