Dr. Zithobile “Zitty” Nxumalo ’11’s career path, transitioning from a community studies major researching gardening to the president of a non-profit organization for public schools, may seem unconventional, but she sees it as a natural progression. “For me, it’s a brilliant convergence,” Nxumalo reflects, emphasizing the importance of soft skills such as teamwork, collaboration, and effective communication—skills she utilizes in her current role and every position she’s held.
This year, Nxumalo took the helm of the Guilford Education Alliance (GEA), a position that aligns perfectly with her lifelong passions for education and community-oriented research developed during her studies at UNC Greensboro. While earning her master’s degree in communication studies, she worked closely with Dr. Marianne LeGreco, the graduate program director, conducting research that included focus groups and interviews with local gardeners. This experience informed her thesis on social support in community-based food programs and equipped her with the tools to drive community initiatives successfully.
Since graduating, Nxumalo has taught at various institutions in North Carolina’s Piedmont-Triad, including Guilford Technical Community College and as a visiting assistant professor at UNCG’s Department of Communication Studies. Earning her PhD in leadership studies paved the way for her leadership role at GEA.
GEA’s mission is to build supportive networks for K-12 education in Guilford County through four primary services: engage, advocate, support, and collaborate. The organization partners with schools to identify their most pressing needs and provide essential resources, such as the Teacher Supply Warehouse. Nxumalo highlights GEA’s role in addressing both day-to-day challenges and emergency situations, recalling their efforts during the 2018 EF2 tornado that devastated East Greensboro and affected several elementary schools.
Highlighting Success Stories
Nxumalo’s role extends beyond identifying needs; she also shares success stories to unite the community around public education. One initiative, the “engage” branch, includes hosting speaker series and events like “Principal for a Day,” allowing participants to shadow school leaders for part of the school day.
Reflecting on her education at UNCG, Nxumalo notes that her studies in communication helped shape her approach to her work. “Communication studies is the study of how humans interact, during both conflict and in joyful times,” she explains. She draws parallels between GEA’s operations and her thesis, viewing the organization as part of a larger ecosystem where diverse elements must collaborate for growth—much like a garden.
Relationships as Career Catalysts
Nxumalo recognizes the vital role of relationships in her career progression, particularly her bond with Dr. LeGreco and other UNCG faculty, who have continued to support her throughout her journey. “Marianne has been supportive of every step of my career,” she affirms, recalling how LeGreco helped her prepare for teaching interviews.
Her personal connection to GEA deepened after she attended the organization’s Education Leadership Academy shortly after being hired by GTCC. “It taught me classroom management techniques, how to build authentic relationships with students, and how to organize a semester,” Nxumalo recounts, appreciating the networking opportunities and safe learning environment it provided.
Recently, Nxumalo welcomed her daughter into the world, adding a new layer of motivation to her commitment to education. “I was already super excited about education,” she shares. “Now that I have a child of my own, it’s that times ten.”
Nxumalo’s journey exemplifies how diverse experiences and strong community ties can shape a fulfilling career dedicated to enhancing public education and nurturing future generations.
