ORABSE Educator Awards 2025 - Chemika Bolden

Chemika Bolden’s journey in education is rooted in lived experience, academic pursuit, and a deep commitment to social justice. A proud graduate of Oregon’s public schools, she was inspired by early experiences with educational inequity to become a catalyst for systemic change.

She earned a degree in Ethnic Studies from Oregon State University and a Master’s in Teaching from Pacific University, later completing her administrator licensure to expand her impact. Throughout her career, Chemika has centered equity, access, and belonging—especially for students and educators from underrepresented communities.

Currently serving as Administrator of the Grow Your Own Program for Eugene School District 4J, she leads an innovative initiative to diversify the educator workforce. Her leadership includes program development, grant writing, mentoring, and aligning equity work with state legislation and district goals.

A respected voice in educator development and policy reform, Chemika has contributed to statewide efforts such as the Oregon Department of Education’s African American/Black Student Success Plan. Her work bridges personal passion with institutional strategy, always focused on ensuring that all students—especially those historically marginalized—can see themselves in those who lead.