dream curator
Dr. Evisha Ford, LCSW is a mother, thought leader, and the Founding Executive Director of iCan Dream Center, a therapeutic school in Illinois that serves neurodiverse learners and their families. Dr. Evisha is the author of the book Benches in the Bathroom: Leading a Physically, Emotionally, and Socially Safe School Culture.
She began her career serving inner-city homeless youth in Chicago. Dr. Evisha was recruited by Chicago Public Schools, launching her path in education. She is a former Assistant Superintendent, Director of Special Education, and Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Aurora University, Dr. Evisha’s research focuses on students with disabilities, youth resiliency, and critical race theory.
Dr. Evisha is a sought after thought leader and consultant in schools nationally and internationally. She specializes in trauma-compassionate leadership, program design, cultural and racial equity, developing continuums of service for diverse learners, and a variety of other topics relevant to effective school and nonprofit leadership.
Recognitions
President of the Board for the United Way Blue Island Robbins Neighborhood Network.
“Woman of the Year” by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
Honored as one of the influential “100 Black Women in Chicago” for her educational contributions
Recognized by the Professional Women’s Network as a “Community Ignitor”
Paige Award recipient for her impact within the special needs community
Dream Maker Award from the Bronzeville Children’s Museum of Chicago
“Each educator has his or her personal backpack of stuff to carry around, and may also have to do the heavy lifting for students... Thus, it’s imperative that leaders design environments that cultivate wellness and create opportunities for people to be their best.”
Dr. Evisha Ford, LCSW
Benches in the Bathroom