Welcome to the Evolving Folks Project’s “Evolved Woman of the Week” profile. Each week, we will highlight an individual who embodies what it means to be an evolved person, famous and non-famous alike. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to the CEO of Learnday, OneTwentyEdu, and Thessalonika A. Embry University and pilot, Dr. Thessalonika Arzu-Embry.
Dr. Arzu-Embry, the daughter of two retired military parents, grew up with stories of valor and duty. Her mother was in the U.S. Navy, while her father was in the U.S. Air Force. Her family lived in Suffolk, VA, because they had been stationed there when she was little, but eventually, they moved to Illinois.
The strict discipline instilled in her from her military family is something Arzu-Embry credits for her early drive and ambition. Her interest in aviation came from her father, an Air Force veteran with experience as a private pilot, who worked at the bustling Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Because she was homeschooled and her family traveled often, she focused on her studies.
Arzu-Embry, even before she could drive at 16, had her MBA from Regent University and had become a published author. She began her program in September 2014 and completed it in just eight months. Most of her classmates, who were twice her age, had already lived through so much more. All the while, Dr. Arzu-Embry was just getting started
At fourteen, she finished her bachelor’s degree in psychology, a remarkable feat. She designed Learnday, previously called Jump the Education Barrier, to help students of all ages quickly get to college.
Her bestselling books have covered the subjects of education, business, and investing. Through her book, “Jump the Education Barrier,” many middle and high school students and working professionals have been able to finish accredited college degrees in any major at the college of their choice at an accelerated pace, opening up a world of opportunities.
Dr. Arzu-Embry books, with their combined sales exceeding a million copies, have established her as a renowned agent of change. Here is Dr. Arzu-Embry in her own words about engaging more women and girls in STEM:
The ways that are being implemented to encourage girls and women are very diverse because different people have different experiences and interest levels. I think three ways to increase STEM engagement is to 1) speak with younger girls about careers, 2) establish positive role models in various careers so girls and women can be inspired, and 3) increase benefits and pay for women (including maternity benefits and inclusive health policies).
We at the Evolving Folks Project wish Dr. Thessalonika Arzu-Embry well as she continues to shape the world of education and business. Thanks to the support of a loving family and encouraged curiosity, Dr. Arzu-Embry has become an inspiration to little black girls all across the world. Today, we honor Dr. Thessalonika Arzu-Embry as our Evolved Woman of the Week.
Evolving Folks Project 