About Author

Meet The Author

Dr. Gloria Willingham-Toure

Dr. Gloria Willingham-Toure is a trailblazing advocate for civil rights, education, and social change whose life’s work has been dedicated to bridging divides and fostering understanding. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, during the Jim Crow era, she experienced the harsh realities of segregation firsthand. As one of the first Black students to follow the historic Little Rock Nine at Little Rock Central High School, she navigated the challenges of desegregation with courage and determination. These early experiences shaped her lifelong commitment to equity, justice, and transformative education.

Dr. Gloria’s academic achievements are impressive and diverse. She earned a Registered Nurse Diploma, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master’s in Nursing Science, and a PhD from Claremont Graduate University. As a Fulbright Scholar specializing in public and global health, she also contributed to international education and healthcare initiatives. Her professional journey spans roles as a nurse, educator, researcher, administrator, and global advocate, with impactful contributions in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and beyond.

Beyond her career, Dr. Gloria is deeply committed to community service. She has supported numerous local and international initiatives, including her work with Becky’s Orphanage in Senya Beraku, Ghana. Her efforts reflect her belief in empowering young people and creating opportunities for growth and change.

Her memoir, Hindsights: A Memoir of Civil Rights, Education, and Social Change, encapsulates her journey and her vision for a more just world. Through her reflections, she invites readers to explore the complexities of race, identity, and systemic inequality, offering a powerful call to action. Dr. Gloria’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, education, and advocacy to transform lives and communities.