Tashika Carlton

Tashika T. Carlton is a higher education leader and educator with expertise in program development, student success, and institutional effectiveness. She serves as the Inaugural Program Director for the Master of Science in Medical Sciences program at Simmons College of Kentucky, where she leads admissions, enrollment, recruitment, and student progression, and advances strategies to strengthen retention, completion, and overall program outcomes.

Under Carlton’s leadership, the Master of Science in Medical Sciences program is intentionally designed to prepare students for medical school and other healthcare professions, supported by a strong emphasis on academic rigor, structured support, and student success. Combining academic rigor with structured student support, clear pathways, and outcome-driven strategies that reflect her focus on persistence, completion, and long-term student success. Carlton works collaboratively across the institution to ensure alignment, maintain academic quality, and support the continued growth and effectiveness of the program. Her leadership is grounded in data-informed decision-making and a strong commitment to student success. In addition to her administrative role, Carlton currently serves as an adjunct faculty member at Simmons College of Kentucky, where she teaches Organizational Ethics, and has previously taught at Jefferson Community and Technical College and Ivy Tech Community College.

Carlton holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education Administration from Bradley University, a Master of Arts in Adult and Community Education from Ball State University, a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from Bethel College, and an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology from Ivy Tech Community College. She also holds an eSpelman Certificate in Diverse Leadership from Spelman College and a Career Development Certificate as a Phlebotomy Technician from Ivy Tech Community College.

Carlton is also a best-selling author and is engaged in professional and civic organizations, including Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., NAACP, and NCNW.