Erika Rucker profile and information

Short Bio

Erika Rucker is the Interim Director of GEAR UP Achieve, a federally funded program through the U.S. Department of Education that supports student success and college readiness. She previously served as the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Coordinator for the Truman Pierce Institute (TPI) at Auburn University, where she led statewide efforts to strengthen afterschool programming from 2020 to 2025.

With over a decade of experience in 21st CCLC, Erika is a recognized leader in the field of expanded learning. She is a past President of the Alabama Community Education Association (ACEA) and recently completed her tenure on the Board of Directors for the National Afterschool Association (NAA), advocating for high-quality out-of-school time programs nationwide.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Erika founded the Alabama Afterschool Task Force, organizing bi-weekly Zoom calls to support afterschool professionals navigating unprecedented challenges. Her work continues to empower educators, elevate youth voices, and expand opportunities for students across Alabama.