Tarashaun Gipson (Cain)

TaraShaun R. Gipson (Cain) currently serves as the Executive Director of the Black Principals Network, which was revitalized by the Surge Institute in 2022. Founded in 2020, the network is pivotal in championing the empowerment of Black principals and assistant principals across K-12 schools, offering essential support for leadership collaboration, the exchange of effective practices, and addressing unique challenges in their roles.

TaraShaun's deep-seated commitment to educational equity is enriched by her time as a 2020 Surge Fellow and over 15 years of valuable experience in the Chicago Public Schools, where she served in various capacities including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. Having previously pursued a career in business management with a BBA in Business Management, TaraShaun pivoted to education to enact more meaningful change. She is nationally board-certified, with a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Supervision.

TaraShaun demonstrates a profound commitment to educational equity and empowerment, particularly within the Black educational community. Her work emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and advocacy, and creating environments that support educators' personal and professional growth. TaraShaun is a leader who drives positive change within schools and actively engages in broader community issues, aiming to uplift and inspire through action and example. Outside of her professional commitments, she is a dedicated wife and mother of two daughters, actively involved in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and is based in Chicago, IL.