Jacqueline Erickson Russell applied to the corps while working toward her degree in history at Yale University because it blended her desire to work for social justice and provided her the opportunity to build her leadership skills. Today, Jacqueline runs a consulting business to help non-profits align to their mission and goals.

Jacqueline earned a B.A. in history from Yale and an M.A. from the University of Missouri–St. Louis in secondary education and teaching. Jacqueline’s connection to Kansas City blossomed through her time teaching middle school social studies with the corps.

Q & A

What led you to apply to Teach For America?

TFA combined my passion for working toward social justice with the ability to utilize leadership skills. The two years of teaching completely changed the trajectory of my career, and I am so thankful for that shift. I continue to work in urban education because of the start TFA provided me.

What were some of the major lessons you learned during the corps?

As a corps member, I learned about resilience. Because I was developing curriculum and teaching it for the first time, there were many times when I needed to make adjustments while in the moment to adapt to kids’ needs.

How did you use the skills and beliefs you developed in the corps?

Through TFA, I developed a deep sense of mission and commitment to make schools better for kids. Keeping the vision for why you do the work is so essential.