Four-time graduate of the College of Education, Howard Fields, is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and equity within the educational setting.
Howard Fields, a prolific author and co-organizer of the State of Black Educators Symposium alongside a fellow UMSL graduate, reminisces about a significant moment during his graduation ceremony in December 2007 at the Mark Twain Athletic Center.
Hailing from Cool Valley Apartments, Fields, who initially earned his associate degree at St. Louis Community College before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physical education at UMSL, vividly recalls the mix-up that occurred during his commencement. Despite momentarily doubting his academic standing when his name was initially missing from the list, he was pleasantly surprised to discover that not only was he listed, but he had also graduated with honors.
This experience served as a turning point for Fields, instilling a newfound sense of confidence in his abilities. Encouraged by his achievements, including meeting his wife Nancy at UMSL, he decided to further his education by pursuing a master’s degree in education administration, eventually culminating in a PhD in 2017.
Fields credits his transformative journey at UMSL to influential faculty members who broadened his perspectives on education and empowered him to make data-driven decisions in the classroom. Notably, the guidance of [Faculty Name], a prominent figure in Urban Education at UMSL, profoundly impacted Fields’ approach to supporting Black students and advocating for educational equity.
Transitioning from a physical education teacher to an educational leader, Fields navigated various administrative roles in school districts, leveraging his UMSL education to overcome challenges and drive positive change. Despite initial reservations about public speaking and writing, Fields has emerged as a sought-after speaker and author, focusing on critical issues such as diversity, systemic racism, and student performance gaps.
His latest book, [Book Title], delves into the implications of educational policies post the landmark Breitenfeld vs. School District of Clayton decision, shedding light on the impact on marginalized communities and advocating for equitable educational opportunities.
Passionate about fostering diversity in education, Fields co-founded initiatives such as Black Males in Education St. Louis and [Organization Name], aimed at empowering Black educators and addressing teacher shortages. His dedication to mentorship and advocacy underscores his commitment to creating a more inclusive educational landscape.
Reflecting on his academic journey at UMSL, Fields acknowledges the institution’s pivotal role in his personal and professional growth. He attributes his success and continued learning to the supportive environment and enriching experiences at UMSL, emphasizing the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence and community engagement.
The upcoming 2024 State of Black Educators Symposium, organized by Howard Fields, is scheduled to take place at the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center on Feb. 23. Tickets for the event are currently available for purchase.