Dr. Syreetha M. Yokley

Prof. Syreetha Yokley believes that students in her classes and across Trinity’s campus as a whole are deserving of an education that continually perpetuates their self-worth and the importance of the unique contributions they make in society. “I strive to impart that standard of confidence and ability in my students—both the traditional student who is just experiencing college life and the adult student who has already had many life experiences. The value each individual brings to my classes and the contributions that emerges from that value in their various life settings is key to cultivating learners that will inspire others toward their life’s purpose.”

Working as a special education teacher for 19 years and advocating for the learning, growth, and overall success of students with special needs is her passion, calling, and life pursuit.

One student in particular comes to mind. “This particular student was always eager with anticipation of what learning would happen in the class and what was expected in order to do well in the class. This same student studied ahead of time, finding additional materials to share with me for possibly using in the class. The student further went on to develop an appreciation for what she was learning and shared with me her newfound desire to pursue other possibilities within the field of special education.” According to Yokley, this student had always known there was something more she was meant to do and, as a result of taking Yokley’s class, she had now realized her skills and aptitudes enough to decide what that something more should be. “I reassured this student that it was never too late to contribute her unique value toward enriching the field of special education. As a result of my interactions with her, she is excited to now pursue some other aspects of the field and has become passionate about what she will contribute.”

Yokley also believes that students with disabilities benefit greatly from individuals that, through teaching and learning, advocate for their life success. “This advocacy for seeing diverse populations contribute and succeed in society is what ultimately drives my academic and scholarly pursuits in this arena.”

What drew her to Trinity

Yokley was drawn to Trinity by the people she encountered during one of her interviews with staff and faculty. “The ways in which people spoke about Trinity, its commitment to students, culture of togetherness, and even one comment that it was a ‘hidden gem’ were all sentiments that connected with my spirit and assured me that Trinity was an environment in which I could thrive.”

Research Interests

Yokley’s research interests directly align with her passion for supporting students with disabilities toward successfully matriculating at the post-secondary level. “In my tenure as a secondary level special education teacher, I dedicated my pedagogy daily toward developing students toward their optimal academic and personal growth. As a professor, I now facilitate the learning of those readying to join the field. Through these levels of experiences, I realize the necessity of continuing to advocate, teach, and share my experiences surrounding students with disabilities and their significance in the world. God’s plan is for us, His disciples, to use our gifts and talents to serve others.”

To that end, her scholarship’s primary focus aligns toward Trinity’s mission of providing education based on the foundation of Christ-like service that will carry into serving others through the discipline of education. “I hope my work will benefit those who will learn and eventually practice within the discipline. Most of all, I seek to dedicate my ongoing research toward finding ways for making post-secondary success more attainable for students with disabilities.”

When she’s not teaching

Outside of teaching, Yokley enjoys balancing her time with family, leisure activities, and mentoring. “This includes traveling, theater going, and dining out—all shared enjoyments with my husband—reading, honing my arts and crafts skills, and exercising, mostly aerobics and walking. I also delight in serving in various ministries within my church.  Additionally, I enjoy serving local and global communities as a member of my social service organization, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.  Lastly, I serve as a board member for the Black Alumni Association at Loyola University Chicago and a director for my non-profit organization.”

Dissertation Research (was referenced in a presentation to teachers at a professional development seminar): Factors for Improving Matriculation, Graduation, and Academic Success Rates for Students with Disabilities at the Post-Secondary Level