About Us

ABOUT US

 About the 
Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training

"Gendered Research with a Global Focus and Reach"

Founded in 2018, the Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training LLC (I-RDT) provides and promotes comparative qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods research; explores forward-looking and innovative approaches to education and learning; and facilitates bridges between educational research, innovation and policy development. Using a gendered approach to research, I-RDT researchers focus their efforts on equitizing spaces for women and girls of color both in the United States and the African Diaspora. We offer evidence-based program evaluation, curriculum and program development, grant writing, and consulting services to institutions of higher education, K–12 school districts, nonprofits, local, state and federal government agencies, businesses and private sector agencies.   

Mission

The mission of the Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training LLC is to advance world-class research and scholarship that inspires public dialogue, shape policy, and improve the lives and opportunities of women and girls of color both in the United States and the African Diaspora. We work with universities, K–12 public institutions as well as non-profit, government and private sector partners to conduct research, develop and guide strategy, and build capacity to promote evidence-based policies, programs and practices for our targeted group. Through our gendered approach to research, the Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training contributes to new knowledge and discovery nationally and globally.

Vision

The Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training aspires to be the premier center of excellence in educational research and training, guided by collaboration, inclusion, innovation, and ethical behavior.   
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Our Core Values

01

Collaboration

We advance research by establishing collaborative relationships with external partners in the non-profit, government, higher education, K–12 and private sectors both nationally and globally.

02

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

We support the creation of a diverse, equitable, and inclusive research community. We believe that diverse, equitable, and inclusive research environments are fair and just, and are necessary to accelerate discovery and innovation.


03

Openness & Transparency

We make reasoned decisions that are fair and principled and share information in a transparent manner.


04

Resilience

We respond to new information and changing conditions in ways that enable rapid learning and flexibility while maintaining continuity and adaptability for our research institute. 

05

Quality

We produce high-quality work products anchored in scientific research.

Meet Our Team

Dr. Joyce Blackwell

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Oriana Leach

Director of Research, Assessment, and Evaluation
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“The Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training researchers both listen and hear. They truly want to make sure that they understand the client's goals and, subsequently, get the final project right." 
Lorraine Sacks, Beaufort County
“My university hired the Institute f or Educational Research, Development and Training to serve as lead consultants on our Accreditation Team when we were experiencing problems with our accrediting agency. They helped guide us through a successful resolution of our problem thereby ending any threats to our accreditation. Thank you, Institute!"
Taci Frey, Wilson College
 “The Institute for Educational Research, Development and Training offers the ideal combination of experience, flexibility and client support that we needed for what was considered as one of our most complicates research projects."
Johnchi Mandyoli, UWC
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