Andrea Lewis Ph.D., is an educator who values and models academic excellence. After graduating summa cum laude from Spelman College, she earned a Master of Science from the University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate of Philosophy from Georgia State University. Additionally, Dr. Lewis completed a Certificate of Theology and Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary.
Dr. Lewis works in her professional career and personal endeavors to ensure that all children receive a strong educational foundation in their early years. Her professional experiences include elementary school teacher, public and private school administrator, and college faculty. Through her efforts as an Associate Professor and Chair of the Education Department at Spelman College, Dr. Lewis instills passion and purpose in her students who are future educators. She believes that educators must teach from the heart with passion and purpose to help all students reach their highest academic and personal potential.
As evidence of Dr. Lewis’ commitment to preparing teachers with cultural and global competence, she organized Spelman’s first faculty-led trip to Havana, Cuba in December 2015 to examine the intersection of history, economics, and politics on the country’s education system. Subsequent trips were sponsored in 2016 and 2018.
Dr. Lewis has published two books Preservice Teachers, Social Class, and Race in Urban Schools: Experiences and Strategies for Teacher Preparation (Palgrave Macmillan) and Valerie's New Friends (Rathsi Publishing), as well as book chapters and articles in various books and journals centered on teacher education.
Dr. Lewis has received awards of distinction for exemplary community service and excellence in education from organizations including: Atlanta Public Schools; National Alumnae Association of Spelman College (national organization and Atlanta Chapter); Southeast Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; Metropolitan Atlanta Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women; United Negro College Fund; Turner Broadcasting; and Outstanding Atlanta.