Dr. Heather E. Burton | Founder

Heather E. Burton, PhD, a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Black Studies with a minor in Theater, a Master of Social Work, University of Akron, a Master of Public Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy in Urban Studies and Public Affairs both from Cleveland State University and currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Black Church Studies from Ashland University.

Dr. Burton currently serves as Associate Vice President and Senior Director for Faculty and Institutional Diversity and faculty in Africana Studies, Theater and Social Work at Case Western Reserve University. Specializing in racial and gender equity she prides her identity in that of a Christian Black Woman. Dr. Burton proclaims the gospel of Jesus Christ through a lens that counters white supremacy and systemic racism. She has been featured locally, nationally, and internationally as a speaker and workshop presenter. Her work and writings are a testament “My Eloquent Angry Black Rage” book chapter in Teaching Beautiful Brilliant Black Girls Crimson Heights, I’m Single, So What? and upcoming releases Where are the Women:  A Guide to Intergenerational Women’s Ministries and Unapologetically Black: The Misunderstanding of Separatism.

Accepting Christ and becoming a faithful tither at the age of eight Dr. Burton gave her quarters proving over the course of her life that God is a provider. On March 27, 2022, Dr. Burton became the first woman licensed to preach the gospel in the 114-year history of East Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Dr. Burton serves as Associate Minister at East Mt. Zion Baptist Church, under Rev. Dr. Brian A. Cash.  She also serves as oratorical coordinator for the Ohio General Missionary Baptist Association and the RH Boyd National Baptist Congress/Vision Conference. She serves as Coordinator of the Intergenerational Women’s Ministry for National Missionary Baptist Convention of America. 

She is founder of Crimson Heights Ministries, Inc. a 501 (c)(3) geared towards the holistic development of women.  As an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Greater Cleveland Alumnae Chapter, she serves as Co-Chair of Arts & Letters and a member of the Midwest Region’s Chaplin’s Council.  She also serves as Vice President of The Greater Cleveland Delta Life Development Center.   

Dr. Burton is shaped in Joshua 1:9 “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest,”and lives by the motto “If God uses me to touch one person, then my work is not in vain”.