Dr. LaKela Atkinson has worked in higher education for over 15 years as a writing consultant and professor. She holds a Ph.D. in Rhetoric, Writing, and Professional Communication from East Carolina University, an M.A. in English from North Carolina Central University, and a B.A. in English from North Carolina Central University. Her research interests include racial minority learners, mentoring, and writing centers. She is also the owner and CEO of For the Love of Words, a writing and editing company.