Program Innovation and Advancement Strategist
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Dr. Portia M. York joined the team as Program Innovation and Advancement Strategist, bringing extensive experience in education innovation, program design, and organizational growth. She is the Founder and CEO of the York Creative Education Group, where she has secured diversified funding, scaled STEM and arts programming across multiple states, and expanded opportunities for underrepresented youth through data-driven, culturally responsive program development.
Dr. York has held key leadership roles including Chief Strategy and Operations Officer at Teasley Law Group and Director of Advancement at The John Crosland School. In these positions, she generated over $2.5 million annually in philanthropic support and enrollment, launched DEI initiatives, built more than 50 cross-sector partnerships, and led efforts to strengthen long-term sustainability and program impact.
In higher education, Dr. York has taught at Lenoir-Rhyne University and UNC Charlotte, developing culturally responsive curricula and integrating research into instructional practice. Her scholarship has appeared in Science Education International and Urban Education, along with a book and multiple peer-reviewed chapters focused on equity and innovative learning design. She is also a frequent presenter at national and international conferences, including AERA and ICUE.
Dr. York holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction (Urban Education) from UNC Charlotte, a Master of Management from Cambridge College, and a B.A. from Clark University. Through her strategic leadership and creative approach, she supports Campus Without Walls in advancing innovative, equitable learning opportunities statewide.