Meet Dawna-Diamond Brothers
We had the good fortune of connecting with Dawna-Diamond Brothers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Dawna-Diamond, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
In my career, two factors have been major to my success: my faith in God and my commitment to my students. My goal has always been to support and uplift the students I’ve been blessed to teach. The most important aspect of my journey has been following the path that God has set for me in my career. This is deeply meaningful to me because many of the students I’ve had the honor of teaching feel unheard and overlooked—something I personally experienced growing up.
In education, especially higher education, students often feel like they’re just another face in the classroom, with teachers more focused on collecting a paycheck than genuinely connecting. But that’s not how it should be. Education should involve truly hearing students, paying attention to their needs, and tailoring the material to support them. I learn something new each semester because I’m committed to being present and responsive to my students.
Higher education wasn’t my first choice, but it has turned out to be the best choice. I believe that educators and students are the backbone of education, but we must work together to function properly. When we listen to our students, they tell us how they would like to be taught—what resonates with them and what doesn’t. But we have to actively listen, engaging with them to understand their perspectives and adjust our approach accordingly. Unfortunately, many in education come in with their own agendas and forget to serve students’ needs properly. I’m not afraid to speak about how God has led me into this career and how I’ve relied on Him daily—not just through the years or semesters but through each class—to navigate and fulfill my role.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
You already know where I dedicate my success—to God and those who have supported me along the way. But I also want to take a moment to dedicate that success to myself. It’s easy to thank others, but we often forget to acknowledge our own resilience and determination. Throughout my journey, I’ve had to help myself in ways that were anything but easy—mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
My story is one of overcoming challenges, many of which started in childhood. There’s already knowledge out there about my early life—how I was abandoned but then adopted by two wonderful parents. However, my journey through education was particularly tough. I was seen as a “dud” by my elementary school, which even attempted to block my enrollment. But my parents refused to accept that and fought for my right to the same quality of education as other students. They stood up against a system that was prejudiced, and they made sure I had the opportunities I deserved.
One of the hardest parts of my story to share is the prejudice I faced at a very young age. I distinctly remember a third-grade teacher who was offended when I colored a president in a classroom activity for Presidents’ Day as Black. She singled me out, berated me, and even locked me in the classroom to redo the assignment “appropriately.” That experience was a defining moment for me. It solidified my resolve that, if I ever became a teacher, I would never treat my students with such disregard and prejudice. Unfortunately, many students still face discrimination, with incidents like these being swept under the rug because of the color of their skin.
Despite the challenges, I’ve also been blessed with incredible people who have seen, heard, and supported me, even when I was difficult to work with or when times were tough. Now, at 27, I’m a university professor at Texas Woman’s University, and it still feels surreal. To have come from being abandoned by my birth mother and ignored in the education system to where I am today is nothing short of miraculous. It’s only through God’s guidance that I’ve been able to navigate this journey, and every step of the way, I see His footsteps beside mine, leading me forward.
What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of my students. I’ve lived through the consequences of a broken system, and I’m determined to be the kind of educator who listens, understands, and advocates for every student, no matter the challenges they face. My story is one of resilience, faith, and the belief that, with the right support and determination, anything is possible.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d plan a mix of outdoor fun and local favorites in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. We’d kick things off with a hike at a cool nature preserve, taking in the fresh air and great views. After that, we’d chill with some tea at a cute local café. Then we’d hit up Canyons or Movement Rock Climbing Gym for some climbing action. And of course, we’d end with some amazing barbecue—because that’s my one big food must-have.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my success, first and foremost, to God—always. I also want to thank my husband, my parents, my church family, and Pastor Henry Thomas, for their unwavering support. I am deeply grateful to all the students I’ve had the privilege to teach, who have taught me invaluable lessons and helped me grow as an educator.
A special thanks to my mentor and colleague, Dr. Lisa Reed at Collin College, as well as my new colleagues and mentors at Texas Woman’s University—Dr. Timothy Hoye, Dr. Parker Hevron, and Dr. Jonathan Olsen. Each of these individuals has gone above and beyond to ensure my success and well-being, offering support beyond what I could have ever asked for.
Contact information:
Website: https://triumphantpathphotography.weebly.com/
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
