BlackGirlMagic: Fighting for Democracy with Dannelle Walker-Whiteside

Truth's Table

Episode Description: In this episode, Ekemini and Christina sit down with this season’s first BlackGirlMagic guest, Danelle Walker-Whiteside to talk about fighting for democracy. They discuss what fighting democracy looks like: why democracy matters? What is a democracy? And how can we fight to keep it in tact? Pull up a chair and have a seat at the table with us.

Learn more about Dannelle:

Dannelle Walker Whiteside is a higher education leader, education lawyer, TEDx Speaker, authenticity advocate, and force multiplier. As Vice President for Legal Affairs and Organizational Strategy at Austin Peay State University (APSU), she serves as the institution’s Chief Legal Officer while overseeing strategic initiatives, public relations, and marketing. Her leadership has driven APSU’s rebranding efforts—resulting in a 19% increase in applications—strengthened the connection between marketing and admissions to reverse enrollment decline, and launched initiatives like the Leadership Exchange and "PEAYple in the Community" Day of Service. Previously, as Interim President (the first black president of the nearly 100-year old institution), she successfully navigated the university through the COVID-19 pandemic, launched a $65 million comprehensive campaign, and championed conversations on race and social justice.

A former General Attorney for the U.S. Department of Education and General Counsel for the Tennessee State Board of Education, Dannelle has shaped policies protecting students' rights and expanding access to quality education. A TEDx speaker and national voice on free speech in higher education, she brings an authentic and strategic perspective to leadership. Recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Nashville Business Journal, she holds a J.D. from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, and a B.S. from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (an HBCU). Deeply engaged in her community, she serves as Board Chair for the Pleasant Green Community Development Corporation and remains an active mentor and civic leader. She and her husband Sean are the proud parents of three sons, Donovan, Shannon, and Ronan.

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