Shelly C. Lowe, a prominent scholar in the field of higher education, made history when she was appointed by former President Joseph R. Biden Jr. as the first Native American to lead the agency. This significant milestone not only highlights the importance of diversity and representation in leadership roles but also brings a fresh perspective to the Department of Education.
Lowe’s background in higher education and her deep understanding of the challenges faced by Native American communities make her uniquely qualified to address the issues that impact Indigenous students across the country. As the former executive director of the Harvard University Native American Program and a faculty member at Arizona State University, Lowe has dedicated her career to advocating for Native American students and promoting cultural diversity in academia.
One of the key areas of focus for Lowe is improving access to quality education for Native American students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Native American students have the lowest high school graduation rates of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. This disparity is often attributed to a lack of resources, culturally relevant curriculum, and support services in schools serving Native American communities.
Lowe’s appointment signals a commitment to addressing these disparities and creating a more inclusive and equitable education system for all students. By leveraging her expertise and lived experience, she can work towards implementing policies and programs that support the academic success of Native American students and promote cultural awareness and sensitivity in educational institutions.
In addition to her focus on Native American education, Lowe’s leadership at the Department of Education is expected to prioritize issues such as college affordability, student loan debt, and workforce development. These are critical areas that impact students from all backgrounds and are essential for building a strong and competitive workforce in the 21st century.
Lowe’s appointment comes at a time when the Biden administration is placing a renewed emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of government. By appointing a Native American woman to lead the Department of Education, President Biden is sending a powerful message about the importance of representation and the value of diverse perspectives in shaping policy and decision-making.
As Lowe takes on this new role, she will undoubtedly face challenges and obstacles along the way. However, her experience, expertise, and commitment to advancing educational opportunities for all students will guide her in navigating these complexities and making a positive impact in the field of education.
Overall, Shelly C. Lowe’s appointment as the first Native American to lead the Department of Education is a significant milestone that reflects a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership positions. Her leadership will bring a fresh perspective to the agency and help address the unique needs of Native American students while advancing educational opportunities for all students across the country.