About me
Dr. Seena M. Skelton is a nationally recognized leader in educational justice, inclusion, and systemic school transformation, with over 28 years of experience. She serves as the Leadership Development and Research Project Director for SWIFT Education Center at the Life Span Institute, University of Kansas. She is also the Founder and Principal Consultant of Makeeba Consulting L.L.C., where she partners with organizations to drive sustainable, justice-centered change. Previously, she directed the Region III Midwest and Plains Equity Assistance Center and served as Director of Operations for the Great Lakes Equity Center at Indiana University–Indianapolis, advancing equity-focused technical assistance, research, and leadership development in state and local education agencies throughout a multi-state region.
Dr. Skelton holds a Ph.D. and M.Ed. in School Psychology from the University of Cincinnati and earned her B.S. in Psychology from Central Michigan University. A former school psychologist and education consultant in special education, she has extensive experience working directly with students and families, as well as early childhood programs, schools, and district-level educators. Dr. Skelton has led statewide education reform initiatives, including contributing to the design of Ohio’s first multi-tiered support system, and provided technical assistance to education agencies across the U.S. She is a widely published scholar, with recent works addressing culturally responsive education, disability justice, and systemic transformation. Dr. Skelton also serves on multiple national advisory councils, teaches in higher education, and is an Associate Editor for Exceptional Children. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, she is committed to creating inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.