Wilson received her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication at Northern Arizona University, a Master of Education degree in Interdisciplinary Studies at Western Illinois University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Education at Iowa State University.
As a researcher and PhD Candidate at Iowa State University, LaDrina is committed to uncovering the individual meaning of diversity to help people understand how personal understanding and experiences fit into the social context of diversity. LaDrina believes that differences are not deficiencies and when differences are treated as assets, we as a community become collectively stronger. Through qualitative research and practical experiences as a student affairs professional, LaDrina seeks to support individuals, particularly white people, in enhancing cultural competencies. In addition, she works to assist minorities in building collaborative coalitions that invite allies to the table to support minority causes.
LaDrina Wilson currently serves as Dean of Students at Scott Community College, one of the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. During her tenure at EICC, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives to advance the culture as well as developed professional development programs to enhance understanding of diversity and social justice. She previously served as the Equal Employment Opportunity Officer for EICC and used this position to highlight the importance of diversity and social justice training in higher education.
In addition to her roles in the community college, she has spent a significant amount of time advocating for the advancement of women and young professionals. Her work in her community earned her the designation of 2014 Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year, 2014 Iowa Admission Professional of the Year Finalist and 2015 Gathering of Women Young and Gifted Award. Most recently she was awarded the Glynn Fellow Scholarship from AAUW (American Association of University Women), Ester Catherine Harmon Graduate Scholarship, and the Larry and Barber Ebbers Graduate Scholarship, to purse her PhD in Education. In addition to her full-time work in student affairs, she also hosts seminars and speaking engagements. Her current presentations speak the experiences of minority groups, non-dominate cultures, equal pay, career ascension, leadership and enhancing customer service through cultural awareness.