Born and raised in New Haven, Dr. Laquita Joyner-McGraw attended the city's public schools from elementary through high school. She pursued higher education, earning a BA in Mass Communication from Delaware State University, an MBA from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Entrepreneurial Leadership from Regent University. Her doctoral dissertation explored Generation Z's perspectives on entrepreneurship. Laquita resides in Greater New Haven with her husband and two children.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Laquita is dedicated to community outreach through her involvement in various non-profit initiatives and as a career readiness trainer for at-risk youth. She is actively engaged in several local organizations and serves on multiple boards, contributing to leadership and youth development programs within her community.
Laquita is a natural mentor and serial entrepreneur, committed to nurturing, empowering, and equipping students for success. As the founder and CEO of Youth Entrepreneurs, she leads hands-on immersion programs that inspire leadership in middle and high school students across various sectors. With over 18 years of teaching experience and more than 20 years in business, Laquita brings a fresh perspective to career development. Recognized as an authority in entrepreneurship, leadership, and DEIA initiatives, she frequently delivers keynote addresses at conferences and seminars.
Beyond her professional achievements, Laquita is an avid advocate for community empowerment and youth development. She enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the vibrant cultural landscape of Greater New Haven. Laquita’s passion for education and entrepreneurship is matched by her dedication to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making her a prominent figure in the fields of entrepreneurship, leadership, and DEI.
Dr. Joyner-McGraw’s research interests lie at the intersection of entrepreneurship, leadership, non-profits, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Her academic journey has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding and fostering entrepreneurial mindsets among Generation Z. Her work explores how inclusive leadership practices can drive innovation and business success. She continues to contribute to academic literature, providing insights that shape contemporary discussions in organizational leadership and entrepreneurial education.
Chris Haynes, assistance professor of political science, comments on what to expect from President Trump’s first State of the Union Address and how it could influence Connecticut residents.