ABOUT ROOTZ & WINGZ
Skyller Walkes, Founder of Rootz and Wingz, LLC.
Dr. Skyller Walkes
OUR ROOTZ
Dr. Skyller Walkes, the visionary Founder and Principal of Rootz and Wingz, LLC., is a stalwart advocate for justice-centered leadership and transformative change. With an impressive array of academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Adult, Professional, and Community Education from Texas State University, a Master of Science in Juvenile Justice from Prairie View A&M University, a Master of Art in Early Childhood Education and Administration from Kean University, and Bachelors of Art in Communications, Mass Media, and English from Rutgers University. Dr. Walkes brings unparalleled expertise to their work. At the heart of Dr. Walkes' mission is the advancement of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion across organizational and communal landscapes. Their strategic acumen and coaching prowess foster creative innovation, cultivating environments where every voice is heard and valued. In the realm of education, Dr. Walkes has built and overseen a university disability resources office, inaugurated and successfully built diversity, equity, and inclusion award-winning offices at Carnegie Commission Research 1 and Ivy League institutions. Dr. Walkes is a driving force behind recruitment and retention efforts aimed at cultivating diverse talent pools and developing trans-disciplinary curricula that support accessibility and inclusive excellence. Their commitment to culturally responsive pedagogy enriches learning experiences, ensuring that all learners thrive. Collaborating with esteemed organizations, such as Women in Neuroscience (WiN), the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP), the American Pharmacists Association Academy (APhA) and the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) to name a few, Dr. Walkes champions equitable access across communities, organizations, and education. Their pathway programs, tailored for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and Minority-Serving Institutions as a whole, open doors to transformative academic journeys.
Their global reach has extended to projects with the United States Embassy in Madrid and Diversity Abroad, where they contributed to cultural responsiveness programming, literacy initiatives, healthcare, environmental justice, and conflict resolution efforts. Locally, Dr. Walkes' impact is profound. From spearheading restorative justice programs at detention centers and universities, to serving on boards and supporting nonprofits like CARE and Where We Thrive, to name a few, they embody a tireless dedication to advocacy and community empowerment. Through their exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to social justice, Dr. Skyller Walkes is a catalyst for positive change, inspiring hope and transformation wherever they engage.
OUR VISION
Our vision extends far beyond the present moment. We envision a future where equity isn't just a goal, but a fundamental reality ingrained in every aspect of society. Our aim is that every individual, irrespective of their diverse backgrounds, identities, differences, or circumstances are intentionally welcomed and included. In fact, their diversity is valued as an asset and they will have equitable access to opportunities, resources, and representation. We see a landscape where systemic injustices are dismantled, where diversity is celebrated, and where belonging is woven into the fabric of every community and organization. Our vision is one of empowerment, where every voice is not only acknowledged but valued. Through innovative approaches and collaborative endeavors, we are committed to forging pathways toward this equitable future, where the potential of every person is recognized and nurtured, and where the promise of true equality is fulfilled.​ At Rootz and Wingz, LLC., we believe when the roots that affirm our harmonious existence are holistically nurtured, transformative growth is imminent, allowing us to soar. Whether it’s a germinating idea, our sense of personhood, or a community in need of restoration, we help to ground the ideals of equity, justice, and access, so that everyone has opportunities to grow.
OUR MISSION
Advancing Equity and Justice
At Rootz and Wingz, our mission is clear: we empower through equity. We are committed to fostering inclusive leadership and driving transformative change for a just world. Through our strategic approach and unwavering dedication, we cultivate environments where diversity thrives, every voice is valued, and opportunities are accessible to all. Rooted in justice and propelled by innovation, we work tirelessly to build a future where equity is the cornerstone of every community and organization.
Consultative Team
Bianca N. Â Rodriguez, M.S.
Global Health Impact Strategist
Bianca is a dedicated Global Health Impact Strategist, holding a Master of Science in Health Science with a Concentration in Healthcare Administration. In her current role, she leads Patient Safety and Quality Improvement initiatives for two prominent hospital systems in Texas. Drawing from her extensive experience, Bianca is committed to deepening understanding of the social determinants of health and integrating equity principles into training programs. Her career journey reflects a steadfast commitment to bridging healthcare disparities, from facilitating connections between pharmaceutical companies and communities in Illinois to managing a nursing assistant training program at a non-profit organization in Wisconsin. As an alumna of the Wisconsin Women's Policy Institute, Bianca has honed her skills in legislative advocacy and policy development, focusing on enhancing women's health, safety, and economic security. Through her passion for reducing health disparities and empowering communities, Bianca continues to lead purposefully, shaping a more equitable global healthcare landscape.
