Dr. Nicole Y. Culliver is a nationally recognized education leader and public servant with more than 30 years of experience across the full Pre-K–12 spectrum. Currently serving as Assistant Principal at W. H. Kirk Middle School, she brings classroom-tested leadership to improving student achievement, mental health, and school culture.

A Hunt Institute Early Learning National Policy Fellow and U.S. Fulbright-Hays Scholar, Dr. Culliver engages in global study on creativity, climate, and education—bringing innovative, international perspectives back to U.S. communities. A published author and national commentator, Dr. Culliver’s scholarship explores race, gender, socialization, and self-esteem in early development. This research continues to shape her thoughtful approach to education leadership, civic engagement, and policies that strengthen opportunity, belonging, and long-term community wellbeing.