Dominican Kerris Shillingford earned her doctoral degree from Western Illinois University during the May 2025 Commencement ceremony in Macomb, Illinois. She was among 50 Caribbean students who earned degrees at all levels at this 125-year-old state institution, said a release from the university’s center for global studies.
“Awarding doctorates and hooding 12 Caribbean nationals in one commencement ceremony was a first for WIU. WIU is proud of our newest doctoral graduates, and we look forward to hearing updates about their positive contributions and impact on the world,” said Dr. Kristi Mindrup, WIU President.
She added, “I was honored to serve on the dissertation committees of two of our doctoral candidates. The quality of their scholarship and focus on important and relevant issues for organizations and leadership will serve their communities well.”
Dr. Shillingford, from Fine Grass, Marigot, earned an Ed.D in Organizational Leadership. She is a graduate of St. Andrews High School, and had previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (BSIS) in Special Education and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from MSU Texas. Her research focuses on the challenges to inclusivity in education in kindergarten and lower elementary schools. She is currently a teacher in Wichita Falls, Texas.
According to Dr. Tracy Davis, program coordinator and professor for the organizational leadership track of the Ed.D. program, “The quality and background of our doctoral degree recipients would match any elite university. Our emphasis on social justice and the intensity and rigor of our program allow our graduates to present a stellar credential that reflects their abilities as change agents.”
Western Illinois University reports that it currently hosts over 100 Caribbean students among its 6,300 enrolled students. Overall, more than 650 international students from over 50 countries are enrolled this semester.
“I am proud of the four-year commitment from these Dominican and Caribbean students,” said Dr. Randy Glean, Associate Vice President for Global Studies. “Live-streamed programs require scheduled class attendance and summon extreme discipline to integrate with professional and family obligations.”
Kerris, Personally, I don’t usually extend congratulations to Dominicans because of some academic achievement, nevertheless, in your case it is different, and I must congratulate you on your achievements, and wish you the very best from here on for the rest of your life.
Honestly, prior to today I had absolutely no knowledge of your existence: However, earlier today, someone text me a photograph of you; and suggest I go on DNO and read this caption: “Dominican-born educator earns doctorate from Western Illinois University.” By the time I was finished reading the person called me and simply broke the news, by saying “she is our relative; and went on to explain that your grandmother, Viola the late was my biological aunt, whereas my late father; that boy Hector Telemaque is your father Edward, uncle.
In any event; I am very happy for you and wish you well; there shall be no limits in your field of academics; jobs shall not be an issue!