Dr. Rivers has diversified experience as an author, educational consultant, superintendent, principal, teacher, publisher, retail business owner and a leader in government, economic and social issues. Her educational background includes post doctoral work at Michigan State University in Family and Child Ecology, an Educational Administration Doctorate from Vanderbilt of Nashville, Tennessee, a Masters of Education from Southern University and a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She is the author and editor of many publications. Dr. Rivers began one of the first charter schools in the United States, Sankofa Shule, an Afrocentric academy emulated by many African American charter schools. The school was called an “Educational Powerhouse” by U.S. News and World Report, April 27, 1998. Her philosophy and curriculum are models for educating all students.