Game 4 P.E.A.C.E alumnus Rita Daniels born in Auburn, New York, the final resting place of Harriet Tubman is a maternal great-great-great-grandniece of Harriet Tubman who developed a deep admiration for her ancestor from an early age. A champion of education and social justice, she stands as a prominent educator and the founder of the Harriet Tubman Learning Center (HTLC) in Powder Springs, Georgia. This admiration evolved into a lifelong commitment to education and social justice, guiding her professional and personal endeavors.

Her academic achievements reflect her dedication to education. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, both from Trident University International, where she graduated cum laude. These credentials underscore her expertise and commitment to making a difference in the field of education.

In 2015, Sister Rita established the Harriet Tubman Learning Center (HTLC) to combat youth illiteracy and disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. The HTLC offers a range of programs designed to equip underserved children and young adults with the skills and confidence needed for success. These programs include literacy initiatives, STEM education, cultural arts, and youth entrepreneurship. Through these diverse offerings, the HTLC aims to provide holistic support to its students, fostering both academic and personal growth.

The HTLC is unique in that it is the only Harriet Tubman-themed entity in the United States operated by her family members. This connection lends a profound sense of authenticity and purpose to the center’s mission. By drawing on Tubman’s legacy, the HTLC not only educates its students but also instills in them a sense of pride and identity linked to their cultural heritage.

The Harriet Tubman Learning Center, under Daniels’ leadership, addresses critical issues facing today’s youth. Its literacy programs are designed to enhance reading and writing skills, which are fundamental to academic success and personal empowerment. By providing access to books, tutoring, and reading programs, the HTLC helps to close the literacy gap and set students on a path to lifelong learning.

In addition to literacy, the HTLC places a strong emphasis on STEM education. Recognizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in the modern world, the center offers hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and innovation. These programs aim to prepare students for future careers in STEM fields, thereby enhancing their prospects and contributing to the development of a skilled workforce.

The cultural arts programs at the HTLC celebrate and preserve African American heritage through music, dance, visual arts, and theater. These activities provide students with a creative outlet and help them to develop a strong sense of cultural identity and self-expression. By connecting students with their cultural roots, the HTLC fosters a sense of pride and belonging.

Youth entrepreneurship is another key focus of the HTLC. By teaching students the basics of business and financial literacy, the center empowers them to think critically and creatively about their future. These programs encourage entrepreneurial thinking and provide the skills necessary to turn ideas into successful ventures.

In addition to her work at the HTLC, Sister Rita Daniels co-authored a book on Harriet Tubman, combining deep research with rich family memories to provide a nuanced portrait of her famous ancestor. This book highlights Tubman’s legacy from her roots in Ghana to her impactful work in the United States. Through this literary contribution, Daniels continues to honor Tubman’s mission of education and empowerment for future generations.

The Harriet Tubman Learning Center stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Harriet Tubman. Through its comprehensive programs and initiatives, the HTLC embodies Tubman’s spirit of resilience, courage, and dedication to justice. Daniels’ leadership and vision ensure that Tubman’s legacy continues to inspire and uplift new generations.

Sister Rita Daniels’ dedication to education and social justice is a beacon of hope for underserved communities. Her work at the Harriet Tubman Learning Center and her literary contributions ensure that Harriet Tubman’s legacy lives on, empowering future generations to achieve their full potential. By combining academic rigor with cultural heritage, she creates a unique and impactful educational experience that honors the past while building a brighter future.