About Me 

Personal Background:

I am LaToya but I prefer to be called Toya. I was born and raised in St. Louis MO and graduated from the Normandy School District. I am the oldest of 3 and a first-generation college graduate. My siblings and I are 8 and 10 years apart. My sister is right under me and then my baby brother. My sister Nia is our quiet but mighty storm. She is very fashionable and is extremely gorgeous! My baby brother (who I call Kid)- is a former athlete. He is extroverted and the life of any party. He is the troll of our family. Our mama is the definition of a mama bear. She is very protective of her children. She is the best cook in our family. I am willing to bet anyone $100 that her chicken will be the best fried chicken they have ever eaten. 

I am a dog mom to a sweet but spicy Pitbull named Bella. I have been living with Systemic Lupus for 8 years. I consider myself a Lupus warrior and have managed to live a productive and full life despite my health challenges. I continue to preserve and refuse to let it stop me. I enjoy traveling, cooking, event planning/decorating and spending time with my family. We are remarkably close, and we cannot go more than 2 days without talking to one another. My current hobbies are reading and food blogging.  

Professional and Education Background:  

I am currently the ADA Coordinator for Webster University. Prior to joining Webster, I was a Middle School Special Education teacher for 5 years. I received my BA in Education from SLU, M. ED in Special Education from UMSL, Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder from UMSL. I am currently a doctoral student pursuing my Ed.D in Transformative Learning in the Global Community at Webster University.  

I am also the founder of AFIC (Advocate, Family, Inclusion, & Community). It is a Non-Profit advocacy agency to support individuals and families access their rights under the IDEA, ADA, and Rehabilitation Act Section 504. Special Education and Disability Law is truly a passion of mine.