Meet Dr. Joi Patterson, who serves as a Director-at-Large on the National Board of Directors as a Director-at-Large. Dr. Patterson currently serves as Chief of Institutional Engagement and Excellence at Governors State University, where she reports directly to the President and sits on the President’s Cabinet.
An Unexpected Calling
“I never imagined I would become an educator,” Dr. Patterson shares. Growing up, she didn’t see many teachers who looked like her, so teaching never felt like a realistic path. “Because of that, education didn’t seem like an option.”
Her plans initially pointed toward nursing or medicine—until college changed everything. “It wasn’t until I had my first minority professor that my perspective shifted,” she explains. “That experience showed me the power of representation, and I realized I could be that person for someone else.” What began as an unexpected turn soon became a deeply fulfilling calling.
The Teachers Who Shaped Her
Dr. Patterson credits several educators with shaping her confidence and sense of self—both inside and outside the classroom.
“My fourth-grade teacher, Sister Mary Nicolas, trusted me enough to let me take home the class pet for the summer,” she recalls. “That simple gesture boosted my confidence and sense of responsibility. And yes, the pet returned alive and well."
She also remembers her high school gym teacher, Mr. Robinson, for his authenticity. “He showed up every day as his true self and encouraged us to do the same.”
And for four years, her carpentry teacher, Mr. Dugan, went above and beyond to ensure his students’ success. “I believe he’s the reason for my passion for home design,” Dr. Patterson says. “Each of these teachers helped build my confidence—not just as a student, but as a person.”
Advocacy Grounded in the Classroom
Dr. Patterson’s commitment to supporting educators is rooted in lived experience. “As a former teacher, I often lacked the resources and support I needed,” she shares. “It pushed me to be more creative—but it also brought added stress and challenges.”
She is clear about the impact this has. “When teachers face barriers, it directly affects how well students learn.” Her belief is simple but powerful: “When teachers are supported, equipped, and empowered, they can do their best work and students benefit.”
A Career Focused on Equity and Access
With more than 25 years in education, Dr. Patterson has served in roles ranging from middle school bilingual science teacher and principal to superintendent, college professor, department chair, Director of Educator Preparation, accreditation reviewer, and senior academic leader. Her work is inspired by “the need to improve the lives of others and their families through education.”
Her scholarly and service interests focus on teacher retention and teacher shortages, particularly in high-need areas such as science education, educators of color, and disenfranchised communities.
KDP Leadership
“KDP has given me the opportunity to serve on a national level in ways that truly make a difference,” Dr. Patterson says. “It’s more than a professional organization—it’s a community that values the voices and experiences of educators.”
Serving on the Board is deeply personal. “Being part of KDP has restored my faith in organizations that genuinely support, uplift, and advocate for those of us in the field.” She believes KDP plays a vital role as a mentor and resource for educators, offering practical tools, guidance, and a strong professional community.
“That’s why I’m proud to serve on the Board,” she shares. “When we invest in teachers, we invest in the future.”