Loretta Gray

Tri-C Helps Alum Launch Successful Teaching Career

Loretta Gray's path to becoming a distinguished educator began at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®), where she sought to reshape her life after significant personal challenges. After graduating from Jane Addams Vocational High School with a certification in fashion design, Gray initially balanced the responsibilities of marriage, motherhood and work. But a decade later, after a divorce and financial instability, she made the bold decision to pivot toward teaching. At Tri-C, she found the flexibility, affordability and proximity she needed to restart her education.

Tri-C offered Gray the perfect environment to overcome her initial fears and build the skills necessary for her future career. She recalls the anxiety of submitting her first research paper after 10 years away from school. The professor’s feedback provided an opportunity for improvement and recognition, leading to a writing award. This experience was pivotal to her academic journey, and she ultimately graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts. She continued her education at Cleveland State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in Special Education and, later, a Master of Education.

Gray’s career, spanning over 40 years, saw her excel as a special education teacher at the Garrett Morgan School of Science and Tremont Montessori School. She taught students with special needs, mentored new educators and developed culturally responsive curricula. Beyond the classroom, Gray was actively involved in leadership and community roles, advocating for educational improvement and mentoring future teachers at Cleveland State University until her retirement in 2020.

Her passion for education and community service is reflected in her involvement with organizations such as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa Inc. and the National Council of Negro Women. She is also a charter member of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and an advocate for the American Heart Association’s STEM Goes Red for Girls initiative. Gray’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including a Crystal Apple Award, the Renaissance Learning National Model and Master Educator Award[BN1] , and recognition in Who’s Who in Black Cleveland. Her publications, such as Silent Voices: Reading Social Stories and The iPad as a Learning Tool for All Students,[BN2]  showcase her commitment to advancing educational practices.

Gray continues to support Tri-C, recognizing the vital role the College played in her journey. She encourages future students to consider Tri-C as a foundational step toward achieving their educational and career goals. Her story is one of perseverance, dedication and the transformative power of education. Gray’s journey from a single mother seeking stability to a celebrated educator and community leader is a testament to the opportunities that Tri-C provides its students.

“Tri-C is a great choice to build a solid educational foundation, whether you are transitioning from high school or embarking on a new career phase,” Gray said. “The support you receive here will help you become a productive and effective member of your community or a successful student in a university classroom. Remember, you can't change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”