Destiny is a developmental psychologist and community-engaged researcher with a passion for advancing trauma-responsive practices in education. She recently completed her Ph.D. in Applied Developmental Psychology and earned her Master's in Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where her research focused on family resilience and culturally relevant protective factors.

She brings a strong background in facilitation, data-informed program development, and cross-sector collaboration. Destiny has led focus groups, professional learning sessions, and strategic initiatives in both academic and nonprofit settings.

With experience spanning early childhood, K–12, and higher education, Destiny is committed to building equitable systems that support the whole child. She is excited to contribute to the Southland Initiative’s mission of mitigating toxic stress and strengthening school-community partnerships across the region.