Assistant Professor
College of Health and Education, Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences
Academic Credentials
B.S., Emerson College
M.S., Emerson College
Licensed and Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Biography
Tamika LeRay, MS, CCC-SLP is an experienced speech-language pathologist and inclusive education leader with over 13 years of clinical and administrative service in school systems across Washington, D.C., Boston, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Speech-Language Pathology program at Marymount University, where she brings her deep expertise in urban education, language development, and culturally responsive care into the classroom. Tamika’s professional focus centers on improving outcomes for diverse children with disabilities, and she is known for her innovative teaching in clinical methods, ethics, and school-based speech and language disorders. Her background also includes developing early intervention protocols, coordinating interagency services, and leading professional development for educators supporting multilingual and neurodiverse students.
Before joining Marymount, Tamika held key roles such as Director of Special Education for the Virgin Islands Department of Education, where she co-managed a $3.5 million budget and guided systemic improvements in service delivery. She also worked with DC Public Schools’ Early Stages program, ensuring effective transitions for young children entering special education. A board-certified clinician, Tamika holds a Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Emerson College and is currently pursuing her EdD in Special Education at Liberty University, with research focused on special educator retention in St. Croix. Through every role, Tamika leads with passion, and purpose—advancing equity, elevating student voice, and mentoring the next generation of speech-language pathologists.
Teaching Area
- Early childhood Assessment and Intervention
- Culturally Responsive Assessment and Intervention
- Mentorship and Clinical Skills
Research Interests
Tamika’s research includes culturally responsive speech and language assessment and intervention in early childhood and teacher retention.
