Lisle, Ill. – Feb. 17, 2025 – Dr. La'Quata Sumter, an esteemed professor at DeVry University, has dedicated her life to transforming the landscape of STEM education and inspiring underrepresented students to dream big. With over 15 years of teaching experience, she combines a passion for technology with a mission to empower young minds to see themselves as the future of engineering and technology.
Growing up in Red Top, a small community near Charleston, South Carolina, Dr. Sumter's journey into the world of technology began with curiosity and determination. "My uncle was into gadgets, and my aunt worked in tech at a naval weapons station," she recalls. "I saw my first computer when I was 12 or 13, and I was instantly fascinated." Trips to the goodwill store, initially dreaded, became an opportunity for young La'Quata to acquire broken computers and books about technology. "I started putting together parts from different computers. Eventually, I got one to work," she says with a smile, recounting how this hands-on exploration became the foundation of her technical expertise.
Her early education at Garrett Academy of Technology High School further cemented her path. The school's focus on trades allowed her to earn her first certification, the CompTIA A+, at just 16 years old. "That certification opened doors for me. It gave me confidence and validated my passion for technology," Dr. Sumter shares.
Dr. Sumter pursued higher education, earning a Master of Education in Instructional Technology from Georgia Southern University and a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas. As a professor at DeVry University since 2022, she specializes in creating cutting-edge curricula in computers, engineering and information systems. Her innovative teaching philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. "Technology is constantly evolving," she says. "I focus on preparing my students for what's next by teaching them critical thinking and problem-solving skills."
A significant aspect of Dr. Sumter's career is her advocacy for diversity in STEM. She broke new ground as the first African American woman in Southwest Georgia to earn a Part 107 remote pilot certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As the founder of Focusing on Me, Inc., she launched a drone education initiative to make technology accessible and exciting for underserved communities. "The drone initiative was inspired by the need to introduce students to cutting-edge technology," she explains. "Drones are more than just toys; they’re tools for innovation and problem-solving."
Her commitment to breaking barriers extends to young readers through her series of children's books, Flying Drones with Jaxon, Noelin’s Drone Safety Adventure and Dronology: The Complete Guide. "The characters are inspired by real people in my life," Dr. Sumter says. "It's important for children to see themselves in these stories and understand the responsibility and creativity that comes with using technology."
Recognition as a Rising Star by SAE Media Group was both humbling and motivating for Dr. Sumter. "It tells me my work is making a difference," she reflects. "It's a responsibility to pave the way for others, and I want young women to know they belong in engineering too."
Her efforts to close the gap in STEM are complemented by initiatives like DeVry University's HerWorld, which introduces young women into STEM activities and inspires them to envision a future in technology. "Programs like these expose young girls to role models and help them see technology as a space where they can thrive." Next month, Dr. Sumter will participate yet again in a HerWorld event in collaboration with the Boys & Girls Club of North Central Illinois.
For Dr. Sumter, Black History Month holds profound meaning: "It's a time to reflect on the sacrifices of our ancestors and the opportunities they fought for," she says. "Sitting in spaces they dreamed of is both inspiring and a reminder to keep pushing forward."
Her message to young girls aspiring to enter STEM is clear: "Dream big, stay curious and don't let obstacles define you. Your representation matters. Together, we can transform the world through creativity, knowledge and determination."
Dr. Sumter's journey, from a curious child tinkering with computers to an accomplished professor and advocate, embodies the transformative power of education, passion and perseverance. As she continues to inspire the next generation, her legacy shines as a beacon for those striving to make their mark in STEM.
