Our lab’s own Faith Maeba talked with ABC News about how the education system is evolving with technology!

This interview is part of a series on Viva de PhD —a podcast hosted by Lorena Aceves that aims to spotlight researchers whose work meaningfully supports youth, families, and communities. In this episode, Dr. Williams shares how she built a thriving research lab of more than 30 students while creating an environment grounded in belonging, connection, and shared purpose. We also discuss her research on culturally affirming spaces for Black, Latine, and multiracial children and families.

The developmental psychology Ph.D. student, whose research focuses on the experiences of Multiracial and Multiethnic LGBTQIA+ people, has proven to be a prolific researcher and impactful mentor at VCU.

In eight years, Richmond’s multilingual student population has nearly doubled, but graduation rates have not kept pace. Now, Richmond Public Schools and VCU are partnering on a research project to change that.

Supported by a new William T. Grant Foundation award, the research-practice partnership will focus on middle school students and their families’ involvement in their education.

“When universities and communities work together, they demonstrate just how powerful engaged research can be to address some of the most pressing issues facing young people today. We are proud to support these partnerships as they advance their research agendas, challenge their institutions to reward collaborative, community-embedded scholarship, and work toward reducing inequality,” said Adam Gamoran, president of the William T. Grant Foundation.