Dr. Sue May, Ed.D

Dr. Sue May, Ed.D. is a wife, mother of two young adult sons, and scholarly expert on financial literacy and family socialization among young Black men. Dr. Sue May is committed to promoting economic development within Black communities and sees financial education as a tool for economic growth and wealth-building. With a focus on creating sustainable, long-lasting changes within Black communities, her work addresses systemic barriers and promotes equitable access to economic opportunities for Black families and communities. Dr. May is a retired social worker of over 20 years and a U.S. Navy veteran. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the San Francisco State University School of Social Work.

 

Dr. May recently earned her Doctorate in Education from Benerd College, University of the Pacific, in 2023, where she examined the role of family socialization in Black men’s financial literacy development using Critical Race Theory, the Family Financial Socialization model, and qualitative research methods. Her groundbreaking work emphasizes family and community involvement in young Black men’s financial education and the benefits of early education around financial literacy and skills. Dr. May is a member of her local NAACP chapter and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She has served on school and district panels in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, advocating for families and children to ensure equitable learning environments. Community and family values and background shape Dr. May’s dedication to financial education as a means of economic empowerment. Born in Southside Chicago and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, she is the proud granddaughter of Mississippi sharecroppers and daughter of Southern Baptist parents.

 

Dr. May believes financial literacy and education give one dignity and the ability to self-advocate, shaped by her childhood memories of witnessing her mother navigate the world unable to read, write, or count money. These memories of her mother taught her the value of acquiring her education and counting money. Dr. May emphasizes financial education and awareness in Black communities and preserving wealth through investments, entrepreneurship, and financial education. She sees economic development and prosperity as a community effort. Sue is a true educator and dedicated social worker, believing that children, irrespective of their abilities and disabilities, deserve safe and supportive environments conducive to learning. She enjoys going to farmers' markets, gardening, international travel, stargazing, exploring cuisines, food photography, and working on her children’s books.