About Dr. Justin Grimes

Dr. Justin Grimes is a distinguished educator deeply committed to equity, social justice, liberation, storytelling, service, and healing. Raised in the dynamic community of Little Rock, Arkansas, his experiences have profoundly influenced his dedication to extending grace, fostering understanding, and addressing issues of injustice.

Academically, Dr. Grimes holds a comprehensive educational background, including an undergraduate degree in Computer Information Systems with a Minor in African American Studies and a Master's in Workforce Development Education from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He furthered his expertise by obtaining a Ph.D. in Counseling and Student Personnel Services (College Student Affairs Administration) from the University of Georgia.

As the visionary founder and CEO of Stick With It, LLC, and Apply to Graduate School, Dr. Grimes spearheads an education and consulting enterprise that facilitates connections between individuals and organizations, offering insights and resources on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Graduate Education. His work assists individuals in navigating career and education decisions and provides strategies to propel them toward success.

A dedicated scholar, Dr. Grimes, researches the marginalization and socialization of black doctoral students, motivations for pursuing graduate education, mentorship in Student Affairs for Black professionals, and the barriers faced by low-income, first-generation college students in the Southern United States.

Beyond academia, Dr. Grimes finds fulfillment in diverse activities such as bowling, working out, watching movies, cooking, and mentoring students and working professionals. He envisions that participation in his classes, coaching sessions, keynotes, or workshops will empower individuals to become better learners, employees, and citizens through a lifelong commitment to learning.