Yvonne Morris

Biography

Dr. Yvonne Morris is the academic specialist in the Department of African American and African Studies at Michigan State University. Coming from Las Vegas, Dr. Morris earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in multicultural education, and Certificate in Social Justice Studies from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). She recently completed her PhD also from UNLV.  

While still in curriculum and instruction with a focus in cultural studies, international education, and multicultural education, her doctoral research centered digital Black feminism. Led by her interest and admiration of Black women’s labor, brilliance, and knowledge production she observed on Twitter, Dr. Morris explored how Black women prioritize joy within the spaces they create for themselves on Twitter. Additionally, Dr. Morris explored various forms of digital resistance Black women use to protect their joy and space as well as protect other Black women on Twitter given misogynoir. Other research fields of interests include Black feminisms, Black digital studies, social movements, and social change. 

The majority of her professional career is within the field of education. Dr. Morris previously worked with the State of Nevada Department of Education. She was the project coordinator for schools identified for Comprehensive Support and Improvement with the Office of Student and School Supports. She has also worked for UNLV’s signature program #LoveToTeachLV under Abriendo Caminos/Opening Pathways. This program worked with students to address the need to diversify the teacher workforce as well as reduce the teacher shortage in Southern Nevada. In addition, Dr. Morris worked with the Nevada State College TRIO Upward Bound Programs advising and supporting first-generation students in their preparation for college entrance. 

Dr. Morris prioritizes that her students are seen as a whole beyond their academic identity and are met with care. She is dedicated to ensuring students feel encouraged to take up the space they deserve and make sure they remember they already belong. And she will always choose to center the joy in her work – the joy to create, the joy to engage, the joy to just be.