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Artika Tyner
Law Professor - Author - Speaker - 2019-20 ACE Fellow
Professional Background
Dr. Artika R. Tyner is a highly respected educator, advocate, and author who has made significant contributions to social justice, racial equity, and educational reform. She currently holds the esteemed position of the founding director of the Center on Race, Leadership, and Social Justice at the University of St. Thomas. In her role, Dr. Tyner is dedicated to empowering students to become agents of change, or 'social engineers', who can forge pathways to justice, freedom, and equality in society.
With a diverse career spanning academia, authorship, and leadership, Dr. Tyner has had a profound impact on her community through her commitment to advocacy and education. As an influential speaker, she is frequently sought after to share her expertise on issues related to social justice, leadership, and public policy. Dr. Tyner's dynamic approach to education emphasizes the importance of training future leaders equipped with the tools necessary to challenge systemic inequities and promote positive change.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Tyner's educational journey began at Hamline University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and a Certificate in Conflict Studies. This foundational experience sparked her passion for social justice and provided her with the critical thinking skills essential for her future endeavors. Understanding the importance of law in the pursuit of justice, Dr. Tyner pursued her Juris Doctor (JD) at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, where she gained a comprehensive understanding of legal systems and their impact on society.
Determined to further her knowledge and skills in effecting policy change, Dr. Tyner later earned a Master of Public Policy and Leadership from the University of St. Thomas School of Education. She complemented her academic pursuits by studying for a Doctorate in Leadership at the same institution, focusing on how effective leadership can drive social change and empower marginalized communities. Dr. Tyner also participated in an enriching seminar on Economic Development and Urbanization in East China at East China Normal University in Shanghai, broadening her global perspective on social justice issues.
Dr. Tyner’s commitment to advocacy is also reflected in her impressive publications. She has authored several influential books including "Amazing Africa: A to Z," which celebrates African culture and history, and "Justice Makes a Difference: The Story of Miss Freedom Fighter, Esquire," both published by Planting People Growing Justice Press. Additionally, she has contributed to the American Bar Association's literature with titles such as "The Leader's Journey: A Guide to Discovering the Leader Within" and "The Lawyer as Leader: How to Plant People and Grow Justice." These works highlight her dedication to integrating justice with leadership and education.
Notable Leadership Roles
In addition to her work at the Center on Race, Leadership, and Social Justice, Dr. Tyner has held a variety of influential positions at the University of St. Thomas. She previously served as the Associate Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion and has been an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout her career. She has initiated programs designed to enhance awareness and understanding of diversity issues within the academic community and beyond.
Dr. Tyner's impactful leadership extends to her role as an ACE Fellow with the American Council on Education, where she contributed to discussions on improving educational access and quality for all students. Her experience as a Clinical Law Faculty member and Assistant Professor at the University of St. Thomas further showcases her commitment to education and mentoring the next generation of leaders in law and public policy.
She is also the founder of the Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute, which aims to cultivate leadership skills among diverse populations. This initiative is clear evidence of her dedication to fostering a more equitable society by empowering individuals to become leaders and advocates for justice.
Dr. Tyner's involvement with the Science Museum of Minnesota as an Exhibit Developer, Survey Researcher, and Team Lead showcases her diverse skill set and the breadth of her professional experience, highlighting her commitment to education and community engagement.
Achievements
Dr. Artika R. Tyner's accomplishments reflect her unwavering commitment to social justice and educational advocacy. Her role as an educator, coupled with her rich background in law and public policy, enables her to influence future generations profoundly. Dr. Tyner’s advocacy work has not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades for her contributions to education and justice initiatives.
Her publications have not only educated others about critical justice issues, but they have also served as catalysts for change, inspiring readers to become advoc
Highlights
We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Artika Tyner and Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore have been honored as winners of the Citi Trends 4th Annual Black History Makers Grant! This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to promoting diversity, literacy, and justice through impactful literature and community engagement.
Join us in congratulating Dr. Tyner and the entire PPGJ team for this well-deserved achievement! Let’s continue to support their mission of inspiring and empowering the next generation.
Planting People Growing Justice is excited to honor the winners of the MLK Day Writing Competition.
This writing competition is an opportunity for Minnesota’s young people to tell us how they will be a leader in their communities, their schools, or wherever they are.
A special thank you to the Minnesota Twins for sponsoring this writing competition.
