In Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: My Journey in Education, Dr. Cheryl Pruitt shares a powerful account of her relentless commitment to student success, even in the face of adversity. From leading an urban school district to historic gains in graduation and literacy rates to overcoming personal and professional challenges, she proves that true leadership is about resilience, vision, and community. Her story is a testament to the power of data-driven decision-making, the necessity of strong support systems, and the unwavering belief that every student—regardless of background—deserves the chance to thrive. As she continues her fight for educational equity at Pathways to College, Dr. Pruitt reminds us that change doesn’t happen by chance; it happens when we break barriers and build futures—together.

Dr. Stephen Peters is a distinguished educational leader and visionary, celebrated for his transformative impact on K-12 education. With a career spanning over three decades, he has guided underperforming schools to national and state accolades, significantly increased student success rates, and driven systemic improvements as Superintendent of Laurens County School District 55. Under his leadership, the district achieved national recognition, expanded dual enrollment opportunities, and increased college scholarships by $12 million in just two years. As CEO of The Peters Group, Dr. Peters has extended his influence, providing innovative professional development and leadership programs that empower educators nationwide. A prolific author and advocate for literacy, he has served as President of the International Literacy Association and earned numerous awards for his contributions to education. Dr. Peters’ legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to fostering equity, excellence, and opportunity for all learners.

With over five decades of experience in banking, finance, and community development, I’ve had the privilege of leading transformative initiatives that empower communities and drive growth. My focus has always been on fostering equity, innovation, and collaboration to create lasting impact. Here is my biography.