De’Janae Tookes

De’Janae Tookes is a dedicated higher education professional with a strong focus on fostering multicultural initiatives and enhancing student success. As the Assistant Director of Multicultural Initiatives and Events at Samford University, she plays a pivotal role in developing and overseeing diversity programming, including the Ragland Scholars Honors program and university-wide heritage month celebrations. Her work involves managing program budgets, supporting student cultural organizations, and collaborating with various departments to advance Samford’s diversity and inclusion goals.
De’Janae holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of West Georgia and a Bachelor’s degree in History from Jarvis Christian College. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership and Higher Education at St. Edwards University. Her dissertation, titled “Creating Black Spaces: The Journey to Administration for Black Women at Predominantly White Institutions,” underscores her deep commitment to equity and inclusion within the field of higher education.
Throughout her career, De’Janae has demonstrated exceptional leadership, particularly in her previous role at Baylor University, where she managed the Supplemental Instruction Program. Her efforts in addressing equity gaps and enhancing academic support services have been recognized with the Outstanding New Supplemental Instruction Supervisor Award by the International Center for Supplemental Instruction.
Outside of her professional life, De’Janae enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, and she is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.