Mom. Doctor. Student. Teacher. Cultivator. Curator.

I recently finished my doctoral research exploring identity negotiation and the cultural contracts theory related to Black women in the workplace. My doctoral work within the University of Dayton’s Leadership for Organizations has helped me lead mission-driven organizations to success through the program’s emphasis on research, collaboration, social justice, and applied practice.

  • Ed.D. Leadership for Organizations, Concentration: Organizational Leadership University of Dayton - 2023

    Grad Cert. College Teaching & Learning, Specialization: Education Walden University - 2019

    M.A. Organizational Management, Specialization: Leadership & Media Management. University of Arizona - 2017

    B.A. English Language & Literature, University of Maryland, Global Campus - 2011

  • Adjunct Faculty Purdue Global 2024 - present

    Adjunct Faculty Southern New Hampshire University 2023 - present

    Sr. Director of People & Culture MADRE, Inc 2022 – present

    Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Digital Promise 2019 – 2022

    Adjunct Instructor University of Colorado, Boulder - 2020 – 2021

  • Sylvester, D. (2022). Against All Odds: Reflections from a “Scary” Black Woman. Dialogues in Social Justice: An Adult Education Journal, 7(1).

    Sylvester, D. (2023). Duality of Self: For Colored Girls Who Code-Switch When Bringing Themselves To Work Isn't An Option (Doctoral dissertation, University of Dayton)—embargo until May 2024.

Research & Practice Areas

  • I explore intersectionality with a deep understanding of how it unravels the complex tapestry of our social identities—like race, gender, sexuality, and class. Through this lens, we uncover the nuanced dynamics in workplaces and educational environments, revealing how layers of discrimination and privilege shape people's lives, interactions, and opportunities.

  • I explore identity development understanding that it's a deeply personal journey for BIPOC individuals, shaped by societal norms, cultural heritage, and historical contexts. Through this lens, I uncover the diverse experiences, challenges, and resilience of BIPOC individuals as they navigate workplaces, educational settings, and society, shedding light on their unique paths towards self-discovery, belonging, and empowerment.

  • I explore adult learning understanding that it's a multifaceted journey influenced by diverse factors such as prior experiences, motivations, and learning styles, both within traditional educational structures and through non-traditional avenues. This investigation dives into how adults navigate professional development, career transitions, and lifelong learning, unveiling the complex interplay between formal instruction, informal learning opportunities, and the demands of modern workplaces.

  • I explore organizational culture and leadership development understanding that they profoundly influence the fabric of workplaces and higher education institutions. Through this journey, I uncover how leadership practices and cultural values shape our experiences, fostering environments where inclusivity thrives, and individuals are empowered to excel and contribute meaningfully to their professional and academic communities.

  • In my exploration of sanctuary spaces, I understand they're vital sanctuaries of affirmation and solidarity for BIPOC individuals in predominantly white workplaces and higher education settings. Through this journey, I uncover how these spaces offer more than just physical refuge; they're places where BIPOC folks find community, strength, and a voice to push back against systemic injustices. By delving into these spaces, I hope to shed light on their real-life impact, highlighting the resilience and empowerment they provide in navigating challenging environments.

Educational Experience

  • Tapscott, D. (in press). Beyond the Veil: The Black Girl I Could Be. Book Chapter

    Tapscott, D. (in press). Diversity of Intersectionality, Leadership, and the Workplace: A New Framework for Inclusive Organizational Practices. Book Chapter

    Tapscott, D. (in press). We All We Got! Kinship as Resistance: Reimagining the Academy through Black Women’s Othermothering. Book Chapter.

    Tapscott, D. (in press). From Margins to Center: Reimagining Wellbeing through Holistic Education.

    Tapscott, D. (in press). Voices of Blackness, Stories painted White: The Embodiment of whiteness by Black Women in DEI roles. Book Chapter.

    Tapscott, D. (in progress). Embodied Experiences: A Phenomenological Study on the Evolution of Black Women's Identities

  • Witenstein, M., Tapscott, D, Allen, M. (2023). Developing the Anti-Racist Marianist Collaborative Framework to Critique and Revise an Institutional Bias Response Protocol. Paper Presentation at the American Education Research Association (AERA), in person.

    McMullen, C., Sylvester, D., Maddox, C., Moos, M., Rosales, R., Bridges, T., Castro, N. (2022). “Talk About Journeys”: Enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in EdD Programs Through Equity. Paper Presentation at the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), Seattle, WA.

    Maddox, C., Moos, M., Sylvester, D., McMullen, C., Rosales, R., Bridges, T., Castro, N. (2022). Graduate (EdD) Students as the Cornerstone in Leading Equity Audit Process Toward Sustainability. Presentation at the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), Seattle, WA.

    Baxter, A. Bridges, T., Brion, C., Castro, N., Maddox, C., McMullen, C., Moos, M., Rosales, R., Sylvester, D., Wronowski, M. (2022). Graduate (EdD) Conducting Equity Audits Within EdD Programs: A Critical Conversation. Presentation at the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), Seattle, WA.

  • Sylvester, D. (2016, March). A Catalyst for Change: #NameYourCause. Presenter.14th Harvard University School of Education Annual Alumni of Color Youth Conference. Cambridge, PA.

    Sylvester, D. (2016, March). Revolutionizing Social Media: Using Social Media to #MakeItMatter. Presenter. Texas A&M University Southwestern Black Student Leadership Conference. College Station, TX.

  • Journal Reviewer Dialogues in Social Justice (DSJ) October 2023-present

    Member Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Cary, N.C. 2013 - present

    Journal Reviewer Diaspora, Indigenous, and Minority Education (DIME) June 2023

    Executive Committee Board Member Amateka College Preparatory Charter Public School, Washington, D.C. 2020 – 2021

    Board Member Kallion Leadership, Washington, D.C. Jan. 2021 - Sep. 2021