Dr. Rema

With expertise in educational leadership, school culture, and organizational development, Dr. Rema has worked in various educational settings in the U.S. and internationally. She has guided educators, administrators, and counselors in addressing critical issues related to race, gender, and class within schools. Her research focuses on how policies and practices impact student achievement, emphasizing creating inclusive environments that promote equity for underserved communities.

Rema Vassar’s extensive experience spans over 20 years in K-12 education, where she has served in multiple roles, including teacher, counselor, and administrator. She now focuses on enhancing the wellness of school communities by fostering collaboration among students, parents, and educators. Additionally, she serves on the Michigan State University Board of Trustees and teaches in the Educational Leadership program at Wayne State University.

Dr. Rema believes in the transformative power of education. She has committed her career to creating spaces where communities can come together to advocate for educational justice. Her research and presentations have been shared at conferences across the United States and in over 20 countries, where she encourages educational leaders to adopt inclusive practices that support student success.

In 2021, Rema Vassar founded Centering Black Children in Education (CBCE), an initiative that supports Black children's academic and personal success. CBCE holds an annual virtual conference that brings educators, parents, and community leaders together to discuss Black children's unique educational challenges and advocate for systemic change. The conference provides a platform for promoting the well-being of Black students and fighting against their marginalization in schools.

Vassar also founded Leading Well, a program to support Black women in educational leadership. Leading Well helps these women thrive in their leadership roles through mentorship, resources, and community-building. She is also involved in the Sankofa Scholarship Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing higher education.

Her mother profoundly shaped Dr. Rema’s passion for education and instilled a love of learning early on. This foundational influence continues to guide her work as she strives to create a more inclusive and equitable educational system for all students.