It was a desire to learn and help others do the same that drew Alleson Mason to pursue academia.

An assistant professor in the Faculty of Education, Dr. Mason focuses her research on the challenges Black students face in the Canadian school system and the ways in which communities are stepping up to address these issues. By emphasizing the importance of family engagement, she hopes to demonstrate how working closely with Black families can bring about meaningful change in education.

She was driven to join the Black Scholars Institute by the chance to develop the field of Black Studies at the University of Windsor.

DailyNews will showcase the contributions and insights of members of the Black Scholars Institute leading up to its official launch on Sept. 26 and connected with Mason to discuss her research goals and experience in education.

Q: Tell us about your research interests and what projects you’d like to pursue at the University of Windsor:

A: My research interests include Black community activism in education, parent engagement in education, and the experiences of Black students in the Canadian school system.

Q: Can you share a bit about your academic journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in education?

A: I have a master’s and a PhD in education. I decided to become a professor because this field satisfies my desire to learn and to help other people to learn.

Q: What led you to become a part of the Black Scholars Institute?

A: I was attracted by the opportunity to develop the field of Black studies at the University of Windsor and to contribute to generating knowledge with and about Black communities that can have a transformative impact on Black folks’ lives and society generally.

Q: Could you explain the significance of your work and research interests?

A: Black students face many challenges in the education system that have adverse impacts on their educational outcomes and other life chances. My research explores how Black community members are addressing those concerns to improve the quality of life for students and contribute to advancement in Black communities.

Q: What do you believe are some of the most pressing challenges in your field today?

A: Achieving social equity in education.

Q: In what ways do you hope your research will influence education?

A: I hope to demonstrate the powerful ways that engaging Black families in education can transform the education system.