Autem Clay

Autem Clay is an educator, scholar, strategist, and cultural critic committed to advancing justice at the intersections of education, leadership, spirituality, and emerging technology. With more than two decades of experience in public education, she specializes in educational equity, restorative practices, student discipline, leadership development, and systems transformation. As an Ed.D. candidate, her research explores how school leaders navigate the power dynamics that shape disciplinary decisions, equipping educators to build more just and equitable learning environments.

Beyond her work in schools, Autem is the founder of the RICH$AUNTIE ecosystem, an interdisciplinary platform that weaves together liberation-centered education, spiritual formation, AI innovation, and cultural analysis. Through writing, consulting, speaking, and digital media, she invites individuals and organizations to confront inequity, cultivate critical consciousness, and lead with courage. A systems thinker by nature, she believes meaningful transformation begins with telling the truth and creating conditions where people and communities can flourish.

As an Acosta Institute Fellow, Autem looks forward to engaging in honest dialogue with fellow educators, researchers, and changemakers who are asking difficult questions about leadership and organizational change. She hopes to explore new ways of integrating healing-centered practice, emerging technologies, and systems thinking while co-creating more equitable and life-giving futures for education and beyond.