Dr. Amber Willis is the Vice President of Program at DFI, where she leads the strategic vision for instructional support partnerships, guiding efforts to strengthen educator preparation. She also oversees the Impact Academy, championing leadership that transforms aspiring teachers’ instructional practice.
Before joining DFI, Amber spent over a decade teaching secondary mathematics to middle and high school students, designing and teaching elementary and secondary mathematics methods courses in both traditional and alternative teacher certification pathways, and working as a mathematics research specialist at TeachingWorks. These experiences shaped her deep commitment to strengthening educator preparation and instructional quality.
Amber enjoys bouncing around the country, refining her vision of teaching and learning, expanding her knowledge of cities and towns by taking in the art and foliage that line their streets, and imagining the travel blogs she could write about grits, architecturally stunning public restrooms, and the art of excessive domestic travel.
Describe a teacher or student who made a lasting impact in your life.
One teacher who profoundly shaped my life was Mr. Williams, my 8th-grade Algebra 1 teacher. He saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognized and encouraged my mother to enroll me in his class. As a Black math teacher, he understood the doors that early access to Algebra 1 could open, particularly for students like me. Mr. Williams went above and beyond, hosting tutoring sessions at his home multiple times a week to help us fill gaps in our mathematical understanding. His dedication not only ensured our success in the classroom but also created a rare and powerful pathway for Black students in our community. For years afterward, his home remained a hub for Black students seeking math support. I am deeply grateful for his guidance and the lasting impact he has had on my life.
What's a local place or activity you would want DFI colleagues and/or program partners to experience if they came to your town?
If you visit Las Vegas, I highly recommend venturing beyond the Strip to explore Valley of Fire State Park, its stunning red rock formations are truly best experienced in person. Just make sure to bring your camera!
Contact me to...
- Learn more about our literacy or math instructional resources
- Hear about the different ways we partner with educator preparation programs (EPPs) and support instructional improvement
- Discover how you can be a part of our next cohort of the Impact Academy