Jamal Patterson has a passion for language, teaching, and education. He earned his master’s degree in English with a focus on Composition and Rhetoric studies from Eastern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree in English from Indiana University. His career path has spanned multiple industries. Previously, he spent his career working in various leadership positions in retail. There, he spent time developing and mentoring team members which varied from associates, supervisors, and managers. These experiences fueled his passion for supporting others in reaching their fullest potential. Now, he is proud to utilize skills developed from previous educational and professional experiences to support students and ensure that they achieve academic goals and success.
He began his career in higher education at Dominican University with the Student Success and Engagement department as the assistant director for the Center for Cultural Liberation and the African American and Black Student Success coordinator. Here, he led initiatives that focused on providing campus wide cultural programming, mentorship, advising, and multiple programs to support the success and retention of students from historically marginalized backgrounds and communities. Also, he had the opportunity to further support students and translate his skills to the classroom. He developed and provided writing instruction through two critical reading, writing, and speaking courses, “Social Justice in Graphic Novels” and “Hip Hop: Culture, Language, & Storytelling”. With himself being a first-generation college student, he understands the importance of adequate resources and opportunities being accessible for all students.
His hobbies include reading, writing, creating music, playing guitar, long walks, spending time with family and friends, laughing, and having a good time.