GMercyU EdD Student Publishes Children's Book Promoting Belonging and Inclusion

Mariana Martindale, a student in Gwynedd Mercy University's Doctor of Education (EdD) program, is transforming her doctoral research into meaningful impact through authorship, advocacy, and educator development. 

Expected to graduate in 2027, Mariana recently published The Colors of My Voice / Los Colores de Mi Voz, a bilingual children's book that celebrates identity, culture, belonging, and self-discovery. The book, inspired by both her lived experiences and doctoral research, encourages children to embrace their unique strengths while recognizing the value of their voices, cultures, and dreams. 

“My hope is that every child who takes this book home or encounters it in a classroom understands that they matter, their language is a superpower, and their family traditions are meaningful parts of who they are becoming," Mariana said. 

Mariana credits her experience in GMercyU's EdD program with helping her connect her scholarship, teaching, and community work in ways that extend beyond the classroom. 

As part of her doctoral studies, Mariana has focused her research on Latina leadership, representation, and belonging in higher education. During GMercyU's summer residency experience, she explored cultural humility and inclusive leadership practices, work that later led to an invitation to present at the University of Dubuque. 

There, Mariana spoke with undergraduate education students about creating culturally responsive and psychologically safe learning environments where all children feel valued and empowered. Drawing on lessons from both her doctoral research and The Colors of My Voice / Los Colores de Mi Voz, she encouraged future educators to recognize students' languages, cultures, and identities as strengths. 

"I want future teachers to create classrooms where children's cultures, languages, stories, and voices are valued," Mariana said. 

Mariana said the opportunity was especially meaningful because it allowed her to share knowledge developed during her time at GMercyU with the next generation of educators. 

I am especially proud that knowledge cultivated at GMercyU is already extending beyond my doctoral program and influencing the preparation of future educators.

Born in Puerto Rico and raised in the United States, Mariana drew inspiration for the book from her own experiences learning English and adapting to a new culture. Those experiences continue to shape her work as an educator, researcher, and advocate committed to expanding opportunities for underrepresented communities. 

In addition to her academic work, Mariana recently founded ALMA EmpowerHER, a mentorship and leadership initiative dedicated to supporting Latinas and other women through education, advocacy, and community. 

"ALMA was created from the belief that no Latina should have to climb alone," she said. 

Mariana credits the faculty and mentors in GMercyU's EdD program with helping her develop as a scholar and leader while strengthening her commitment to service, equity, and creating a sense of belonging for others. 

At GMercyU, I found a community that recognized my potential, strengthened my voice, and helped me become the scholar and leader I was meant to be. 

As she works toward completing her doctorate, Mariana plans to continue expanding ALMA EmpowerHER, mentoring future leaders, and translating her research into meaningful opportunities through writing, teaching, and community engagement. 

The Colors of My Voice / Los Colores de Mi Voz is available on Amazon. 

Learn more about Mariana's GMercyU experience here.