Dr. LaDonna Monson Gulley

Areas of Expertise:  Access and Opportunity, Curriculum and Instruction, Family and Community Engagement, Leadership, Motivational Speaking, Campus Program Analysis, Culture Development, Organizational Management, Professional Learning Opportunities  

Dr. LaDonna Monson Gulley, is the Director of Leadership and Empowerment at Mesquite Independent School District in Texas.  A thirty-year educator, Dr. Gulley began her career as a 1992 Teach For America Corps member committed to making a difference in the lives of countless students nationwide.  Her belief in “What’s Best for Kids,” while using equity to ensure that every student gets what he/she/they need and maintaining communication and transparency, has allowed her to propel her present community from an area where students don’t survive but thrive.  

Dr. Gulley values accountability and stewardship.  These values drive her beliefs of transparency, trust, openness, and service.  A former school principal, these values were key at her high-performing campus along with culture and instruction.  She is a public speaker and mentor to many.  Her current work in Leadership and Empowerment allows her to impact students and members of the organization with The Mesquite Promise, Emerging Leaders Program, and Project Lead – all designed to serve students, families, and members of the organization and community. 

Empowering children and young people has always been at the forefront of her values and beliefs.  It is her ONE thing.