Da’Cheray Thomas-Ruth, Ph.D. is an Irvington and Newark native who has spent her life pouring into the lives of the youth in Newark, Irvington, and Paterson.
A graduate of Bloomfield College, Montclair University and Hampton University, respectively, Dr. Ruth has dedicated her life to creating safer, more culturally relevant environments and opportunities for young Black and Hispanic youth. Her dissertation research focused on alternatives to suspension for Black Girls in regard to Exclusionary Discipline. In her position at West Side High School, she has worked with various mentoring and community organizations to help guide students and create a positive school culture for all stakeholders. Dr. Ruth has spent years proving that mentorship and wraparound services can change the trajectory of someone’s life. An educator for over 11 years, Dr. Ruth has studied relationships, restorative practices and other alternatives to enhance the educational experiences of marginalized children.