About the Collaborator
Dr. Denise LaRosa is a dynamic educator and strategic DEI leader with over 15 years of experience in fostering inclusive, mission-driven K–12 learning communities. Currently serving as Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at The Ellis School, she leads cross-divisional initiatives that integrate equity into curriculum, policy, and student life. Denise is also a seasoned classroom educator, having taught early childhood through upper school and developed interdisciplinary courses like “Voice & Vision” focused on identity, wellness, and civic engagement. A skilled facilitator and program designer, she cultivates meaningful partnerships, mentors student leaders, and creates spaces of belonging through events like Culture Jam and MLK Day programming. Denise holds a Doctor of Education in Language, Literacy, and Culture from the University of Pittsburgh and is dedicated to advancing equity through collaboration, professional learning, and community engagement.
Highlighted Work
Publications
- Culture Jam – A student-led DEI conference now in its 21st year, which I coordinate and expand annually
- Voice & Vision – An interdisciplinary 9th-grade course I designed on identity, equity, and civic engagement
- Community partnerships with The Hear Foundation, 412 Food Rescue, and Will Allen Foundation that support racial equity programming and student learning
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