For Naqiba Gregory, being part of CTA’s EMEID (Ethnic Minority Early Identification and Development) program in 2018-19 “was an important journey in my life. EMEID provides wonderful opportunities to find how our strengths and interests fit within CTA’s structure so we can best serve the association and our members.”

Gregory is now the new board advisory chair for EMEID, a yearlong program for CTA members of color who are interested in expanding their roles in CTA. EMEID’s goal is to increase the number of CTA leaders of color. It builds on existing CTA and NEA programs, trainings, conferences and events, and includes ongoing interaction with your chapter, CTA and NEA leadership, and CTA staff.

Participants are paired with a coach who assists in identifying steps to achieve individual goals. “Being mentored on my goals helped me define them and know my direction,” recalls Gregory. As a result, she has become very involved in equity issues.

A member of West Sacramento Teachers Association, Gregory is active in multiple CTA leadership areas, including the American Indian/Alaska Native Caucus, the State Council Civil Rights in Education Committee, and the Racial Equity Affairs Committee. In 2021, Gregory received CTA’s American Indian/Alaska Native Human Rights Award in Honor of Jim Clark for her advocacy of Native equity.

As chair, she expects EMEID to continue expanding and recruiting more BIPOC members who can help CTA’s work. “The more diverse voices that reverberate through CTA and our locals, the sooner we will have a more equitable educational system.”

Dates for EMEID Class of 2022-23

Apply at EMEID program starting Feb. 15; deadline: April 8. Applicants notified by May 13. Participants are expected to attend CTA Summer Institute, Emerging Leaders Track, July 24–28, and CTA State Council, Jan. 27–29, 2023. Contact emeid@cta.org for details.