Tulsa

Dr. Kimberly Benavides is a passionate educational leader with 20 years of experience in public education. Kim’s work with students, families, and the community is fueled by her unwavering belief that children are our greatest asset, and literacy is the key to self-confidence and opportunity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies from Texas Tech University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from The University of Texas at Arlington, and Doctor of Education from Abilene Christian University where her research focused on the sustainability of school-community partnerships.

Rae Carmichael is a Springfield, Missouri native and has spent her career weaving together the tapestry of social work and education. Rae holds to a firm conviction that given the right support, all students can achieve and thrive. Equipped with a Bachelors of Social Work from Southeastern University in 2012, and a Masters of Social Work from Missouri State University in 2013, Rae’s passion for youth advocacy led her Tulsa Public Schools where she served as a social service specialist. After earning her LCSW, Rae transitioned to Collegiate Hall as the director of student services in July 2019. In June 2020, the pandemic forced schools to pivot education and Rae embraced the challenge and accepted the role of founding school director for Collegiate Hall Primary School. Today, Rae Carmichael brings her unwavering commitment to providing equitable education opportunities to Reading Partners. Through collaboration and data driven practices, Rae has a deep desire to positively impact the literacy landscape in Tulsa.

Amanda has devoted her entire professional career to public education, first as a classroom teacher in Memphis and Dallas and later as an instructional coach. In 2019, Amanda and her family moved from Dallas to Tulsa. Upon arrival, Amanda joined the Tulsa Reading Partners team as an AmeriCorps member, first as a literacy lead, and then as a site coordinator at McKinley Elementary and McClure Elementary. Amanda graduated from the University of Memphis with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a Masters in Library Science at OU-Tulsa.

Kim Taylor graduated from Northwood University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. While completing her degree, Kim decided to dedicate her career to organizations that make a positive impact in her local community. For over ten years, Kim has held a variety of roles ranging from development, special events, volunteer administration, and community engagement at local agencies. She received her international accreditation for Certification in Volunteer Administration in 2014.