Marquetta Strait

Dr. Marquetta Strait is a dedicated educator, bridge-builder, and advocate for student success, committed to designing transformative learning experiences that expand access and foster meaningful connections. She is a proud alumna of both Purdue University and Claflin University, a historically Black university, where she cultivated her passion for education, mentorship, and equity-driven innovation. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with
a specialization in Learning Design and Technology. As Purdue’s University Innovation Alliance (UIA) Fellow, she collaborates with campus leaders to drive student-centered initiatives, enhance faculty engagement, and strengthen educational pathways for historically underrepresented scholars, particularly first-generation and income-eligible students.

Previously, Marquetta served as the Assistant Director for Horizons Student Support Services, a federally funded TRIO program dedicated to empowering first-generation and income-eligible students. In this role, she led enrollment initiatives, cultivated campus partnerships, and redesigned the Faculty Mentorship Program, transforming it into a high-impact, sustainable professional network. She also co-led the Global Leadership course, a barrier-breaking, reduced-cost study abroad experience that provided scholars with global perspectives and professional growth opportunities.

Marquetta’s expertise spans instructional design, faculty development, and large-scale academic initiatives. She played a key role in a $1.5 million grant-funded project, leading efforts to equip K-12 educators with blended and online learning strategies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She also designed and launched the College of Education’s Graduate Peer Mentoring Program at Purdue University, fostering a supportive and inclusive academic
community. Additionally, she led the development of an innovative micro-credential for graduate teaching assistants, integrating self-paced learning, reflection, and intercultural competency to strengthen teaching practices and enhance student engagement.

Guided by a deep commitment to connection, equity, and growth, Marquetta finds purpose in creating spaces where students and educators feel valued, supported, and empowered. Whether leading high-impact programs, mentoring future scholars, or advancing institutional initiatives, she remains dedicated to helping others thrive and ensuring that all learners—regardless of background—have the tools and opportunities to succeed.