CFD Welcomes Tomeka Wilcher as Educational Program Developer
Tomeka Wilcher is the educational program developer at the Center for Faculty Development.
By David Simpson
A longtime educator with a background in coaching and mentoring has joined the Center for Faculty Development.
Tomeka Wilcher of Newport News started work in mid-December as educational program developer. She'll plan and conduct workshops and events for CFD and help the director, Annette Finley-Croswhite, with other duties.
"I am beyond excited," Wilcher said.
Recently she has been lead literacy coach/specialist for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. From 2015 to 2018 she was an assistant professor in the department of education at Hampton University, and she worked in several roles for Heritage High School in Newport News between 2003 and 2015.
She holds a doctorate in education from George Washington University, a master of science in education from Old Dominion University, and a master of arts in teaching and a bachelor of arts in English education from Hampton University.
Before starting her new job, Wilcher took time to answer a few questions.
Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born in Sleepy Hollow, N.Y.; I grew up in Ossining, N.Y.
When did you decide you wanted to become an educator?
I was very young. I remember helping my younger brother learn to read, having him read a book and just seeing how proud he was. I believe my mom saw something in me, because I remember one Christmas I got a chalkboard. I started bossing my brother around, making him listen to me - poor thing - but I just started teaching, and I loved having this chalkboard. And I remember going to used-book stores with my dad. I would find old teachers' editions, and that's what I wanted to buy.
What are your professional specialties?
English education, teaching, reading, literacy coaching, mentoring, and curriculum development.
What does your new role entail?
Assisting Dr. Finley-Croswhite with the planning, development, coordination, management, and assessment of professional development activities and programs. For instance, I'll be creating learning modules and providing faculty with teaching strategies or research-based best practices.
What is your approach to working with faculty?
Being flexible, understanding their needs, respecting their craft, and being able to learn from them as well.
What are your other interests?
I have a love for literacy. I enjoy reading research on strategies and best practices that could aid in developing students' ability to read and comprehend. I also love putting this research into practice. I have experienced the impact of students' reading deficiencies on all levels, but I have also experienced their achievements when they have been given the necessary tools and strategies to be successful.
What drives you in life?
Wanting to make my family proud, but also to make a legacy, to make a difference.
How do you relax?
Either reading a good book or watching a Hallmark movie.
Anything you'd like to add about yourself?
I am a servant leader, and I love to see people succeed.
