Expert Educational Consultant/Professional Development
Biography of Founder
Dr. Carlena Vaden holds a Doctoral Degree in Education Leadership (EdD) from Northcentral University, a Master of Education Degree (MEd) with a concentration in Management from Strayer University and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree in the area of Political Science from Morgan State University.
Dr. Carlena has worked with children for over 30 years and over 15 years in office administration. In 2017, Dr. Carlena founded Divine Illumination Agency LLC, an education consultant agency. The company is based on the belief that the best learning occurs when leadership can encourage individuals to engage more and know the learning skills for success. One major goal is to assist organizations, teachers, and educational leaders by giving strategies and techniques to optimize the level of leadership performance through the teaching and learning process. Another major goal is to ensure that all children have access to an enriched environment with meaningful experiences to grow and thrive.
Dr. Carlena’s understanding and compassion for children is immeasurable. She has a vast knowledge of how to improve the understanding and relationships between adults and children. Not only is she driven to improve the connection between student and teacher, but her passion is just as strong for the leadership to staff affiliation. She has provided leadership training and professional workshops for educational organizations, public and private, and at national conferences. .​
Dr. Carlena has led and pioneered several different school-based and non-school-based projects that increased leadership functionality and brought moral support to institutions. These projects include but are not limited to seminar sessions, consulting for leadership services, and educational consulting for instructional and managerial support.
Dr. Carlena has been highlighted in the Early Childhood Report, February 2017 issue on leadership and professional development. Dr. Carlena is also a Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Professional Development Trainer, MSDE Excels Program Quality Assessor, and MSDE Accreditation Validator. She is also an approved trainer with the Office of The Superintendent in the District of Columbia.
In 2015, Dr. Carlena became a certified Child Development Associate (CDA) Professional Development Specialist. She is also CLASS certified in the tools of infant, toddler, and pre-k. In addition to her significant achievements in her professional work experience, Dr. Carlena has also found time to give back to the community as a volunteer. From 2008 to 2010, she became a viable part of an advocacy agency, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).
Carlena is passionate about fostering a flourishing partnership between parents, students, and the school. It is Dr. Carlena's desire to see that all students are given the proper tools and support needed to be successful in their educational journey.