April 13th 2024.
LaWanda Toney's new position at the U.S. Department of Education as deputy chief of staff for Strategic Communications and Partnerships has been making headlines. After two years as a senior advisor in the Office of Communications and Outreach, Toney has been promoted to this esteemed role by Secretary Miguel Cardona. In an exclusive interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, she expressed her excitement and passion for the job, particularly in regards to working closely with the Secretary and Chief of Staff to advance important agency priorities such as college affordability, mental health, and academic achievement.
As deputy chief of staff, Toney will be responsible for providing valuable insight and guidance on the implementation of new initiatives in collaboration with Secretary Cardona and the Chief of Staff. She will also represent the Secretary at various conferences, seminars, and high-level meetings. Toney brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously served as the director of Strategic Communications at the National Parent Teacher Association, as well as holding positions in marketing, event planning, and communications for renowned companies and nonprofits.
Nathan Monell, the executive director of National PTA, spoke highly of Toney's leadership and contributions during her time at the organization. He praised her for amplifying the voices of parents and advocating for equitable and safe educational experiences for all children. Monell believes that Toney's skills and expertise will greatly benefit Secretary Cardona and his team in achieving their goals.
Toney's impressive resume is matched by her educational background, having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism from Howard University and a Master of Arts in strategic communication with a focus on public relations from Trinity University. In addition, she is a member of ColorComm, a prestigious organization for women of color in the communications industry. Toney credits her time at Howard University, a historically Black university, for instilling in her the values of perseverance, persistence, and high performance, which she has carried with her throughout her career.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona has been actively addressing important issues such as the teacher shortage and student loan relief efforts, and with the addition of LaWanda Toney to his team, it is clear that this administration is dedicated to making meaningful progress in education. Toney's expertise and passion make her a valuable asset to the Department of Education, and her journey from Orangeburg, SC to a top federal leadership role serves as an inspiration to many.
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