Dr. Antonette Payne, JD
Program Chair for Legal Studies,
Attorney and Trustee for the Fort Wayne Community Schools Board of Trustees
Can you share your journey into the work you do? What experiences, moments, or values led you here?
It's hard to describe my journey into what I do because I wear several hats with different paths. At the center of all of it is education. I started my undergraduate studies as an elementary education major but switched in my last semester to Sociology, focusing on the correlation between race and educational attainment. Even though I did not graduate with a degree in education, I was still drawn to the field and spent my first year after college as a long-term substitute teacher with Fort Wayne Community Schools. I worked in a Title I middle school and saw the many challenges my students faced. That experience, along with a prior desire to study law, led me to law school. There, I was actively engaged in efforts to recruit and retain more underrepresented students and faculty and to use my education to help others. I participated in legal clinics focused on anti-discrimination and assisted special education students in obtaining the services they needed. After law school, I continued to volunteer and participate in civic activities. Years later, I found myself back in Fort Wayne and back in education—first as a substitute teacher again with Fort Wayne Community Schools and then in higher education at various colleges in the city. Working with students again reignited my passion for education, and I returned to school to get my master's in Adult Education and later my doctorate in the same field. I now split my time as a program chair for Legal Studies, a practicing attorney, a trustee for the Fort Wayne Community Schools Board of Trustees, and as a member of various non-profits and civic boards. My passion for education, equity, and justice has remained at the center of all that I do.
Who or what has most influenced your leadership and commitment to this work? This could include mentors, community, lived experience, books, faith, or movements.
I was most influenced by my grandmother, Bonnie Andrews. From a very young age, she instilled in me the values of community, education, and equity. She worked tirelessly for her community as president of the East Central Neighborhood Association and participated in many community boards. She never backed down when she believed injustice was occurring. You could find her at public hearings, protests, and community events. She showed me that a leader isn’t just about a title, but what you do.
For those who feel called to doing this work, where would you suggest they begin? Is there a book, organization, practice, or resource that helped shape you?
I suggest they begin with education. If there is an area that interests you, learn about it. Understand what it is and how it works. Talk to people in the field you want to pursue. Volunteer with organizations that align with your passions and beliefs. Ask questions. Never stop learning and try to improve your understanding. If you are considering serving on a board or being elected to public office, I suggest participating in AVOW. AVOW has a nonpartisan institute that prepares women to lead campaigns, pursue public office, or seek appointments.
What wisdom or encouragement would you offer to the next generation of Black women leaders entering this space?
You are enough, and you are needed. Often, people second-guess whether they are ready, capable, or smart enough. You are. Continue to grow the knowledge and passion that you have. Surround yourself with individuals who also want to lead. Get involved with organizations and causes that align with what you want to do. Seek out mentors who can guide you to where you want to be.
How can people stay connected to and support your work? Please share your website, social media, current campaigns, or other ways to get involved.
I am running for re-election for FWCS School Board, and I would love your support to continue in this work. Contact me on Linkedin or send me an email at alpayne@alpaynelaw.net.