Taunya Black

Education: M.A. in Counseling Psychology from The California Institute of Integral Studies; studied Urban Studies and Dance at Barnard College, Literature, and Creative Writing at SUNY: Empire State College

Recent projects include: The James Irvine Foundation, The Bridgespan Group, Community Works West, College for America

Personal interests include: Naam and Kundalini yoga; spending time with her 10-year-old daughter; reading anything she can get her hands on; writing, dance, theater and travel

Taunya has spent over 15 years working in educational settings. She has extensive experience working with children and families from a variety of backgrounds and across grade levels, both in the classroom and as a program director. Whether situated in a school or nonprofit context, Taunya takes a holistic approach to her work—considering all relevant constituents as she establishes, implements, and assesses program elements and systems for maximum benefit. Taunya has a passion for integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into her work and has led successful initiatives as a member of the Administrative Team and Diversity Committee of Brooklyn Friends School.

Taunya studied Urban Studies and Dance at Barnard College and Humanities with a focus on Creative Writing at SUNY Empire State. She is currently working toward a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at The California Institute of Integral Studies. Taunya works as a teaching assistant for the Integral Counseling Department, where she also serves on the Diversity Task Force, helping to develop effective strategies for creating a more inclusive curriculum, and diversifying the student body and faculty. A certified Naam yoga instructor and Harmonyum therapist, Taunya is also a regular contributor to Rootlight and Dr. Joseph Michael Levry, writing on spirituality, health, and wellness.

Taunya is a recent transplant to the Bay Area from Brooklyn. When not working, writing, or studying, she can be found hanging out with her 10-year-old daughter, exploring their new home.