Dr. Ruth Bowen, a native of Canton, Mississippi, holds degrees in English, Library Science, Education Administration, and Urban Higher Education Leadership from institutions such as Tougaloo College, Clark Atlanta University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. She is a certified educator with experience in teaching, administration, and curriculum development. Dr. Bowen has served as a commissioned officer in Military Intelligence for the U.S. Army and in the Mississippi State Guard. A skilled grant writer, she secured funding for adult literacy and youth programs. Recognized for her excellence, she has received numerous teaching and leadership awards. An active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the Eastern Stars, and Heroines of Jericho, she proudly lives by her motto: “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”
Dr. Joanna McMurtry is a retired educator with a range of experience in teaching and administration. She has also worked for the Mississippi Department of Education in the office of Reading, Early Childhood, and Language Arts. She currently works at her consulting firm, where she provides professional development, tutoring, and grant-writing services.
Chanda Rhodes is a veteran educator with 25 years of experience in alternative educational settings, where her deep compassion and unwavering commitment have positively impacted the lives of countless students. She has devoted her career to creating supportive and transformative learning environments for those who need it most. Chanda currently serves as the Vice President of Educational Issues for the Jackson Federation of Teachers (JFT), where she advocates for both educators and students with passion and purpose. She was a proud co-facilitator, alongside the late Torris Bell, of the JFTPSRP Teacher Leaders Program—a role that allowed her to mentor and empower fellow educators. Chanda continues to make a meaningful impact as a Professional Development Presenter for JFTPSRP, leading sessions that inspire growth, equity, and excellence in education.
Joshua A. Strong taught high-school English and Spanish for 25 years in Jackson Public Schools and the Hinds County School District. He has been a member of JFT since 2002, and currently serves as the executive vice president of the local, where he focuses on communication and member education. He believes that union members become stronger employees through high-quality professional development and union training on vital workplace issues.