The Life and Legacy of Dr. Lakieta “Elle” Emanuel: A Leader in Speech, Language, and Autism Advocacy

Dr. Lakieta L. Emanuel, widely known as Dr. Elle, has built a career defined by compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping individuals with communication challenges reach their full potential. With more than twenty years of experience as a speech-language pathologist, educator, mentor, and community advocate, she has become a respected figure in the fields of autism support, communication sciences, and women empowerment.

Her journey began at Southern University and A and M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology. She continued her studies at California State University Fullerton where she completed her master’s degree and refined her expertise in evaluating and treating communication disorders. Driven by a desire to advance her knowledge and contribute to her field through research, she pursued doctoral studies at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. Her work there earned her the distinguished Dissertation of the Year Award in 2013, a recognition that highlighted her academic excellence and her dedication to evidence-based practice.

Following her graduate training, Dr. Elle established High Desert Speech and Language Center in Southern California. She served as the founder, CEO, and Chief Clinical Director for 17 years. Under her leadership, the center became a trusted resource for families seeking support for speech and language disorders related to autism, developmental delays, voice and fluency challenges, and social communication needs. The clinic’s services have impacted children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout the High Desert region. Over the years, her facility has become a training site for graduate students in speech-language pathology. More than seventy student clinicians have gained hands-on experience under her guidance. In addition, she has personally mentored more than forty developing clinicians and continues to inspire the next generation of speech-language pathologists who are passionate about private practice and clinical excellence.

Beyond her work at the center, Dr. Elle contributes significantly to the local healthcare community. She serves as the clinical liaison between nursing and dietary staff in hospital settings. Her knowledge in swallowing disorders and patient care coordination supports the efforts of interdisciplinary teams and helps improve patient outcomes. She is also an active member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and participates in the Special Interest Group on multicultural issues. Her involvement in professional organizations includes participation in conferences, continuing education, and advocacy for culturally responsive services.

Her leadership extends into community service. She serves as secretary of her local chamber of commerce, sits on the Board of Directors for 3 Little Words Incorporated, and supports nonprofit efforts that provide assistance to children who need speech and language services. Her desire to uplift others is not limited to her clinical work. She is recognized for empowering women and girls to discover their purpose and step confidently into their strengths. Her service as the chartering president of a chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated reflects her long-standing commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community advancement.

Dr. Elle’s expertise has reached national audiences. She has presented at conferences hosted by the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing. Her presentations cover topics such as early intervention for autistic children, the professional role of speech-language pathologists, and strategies for starting and sustaining a private practice. Her knowledge and passion make her a valued voice within the profession, especially among clinicians seeking guidance on culturally sensitive care and entrepreneurship within the field of communication sciences.

Although known primarily as a clinician and mentor, Dr. Elle has also explored creative and holistic interests. She has self-published a book of poetry and expresses her  personal journey through the love and the acceptance and appreciation of relationships. She also aspires to study homeopathic medicine abroad, a goal that reflects her desire to help others through both scientific and natural approaches to wellness.

Her most personal achievements are rooted in family. She is a proud mother of two children who attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Her dedication to their success mirrors her dedication to the children, families, and clinicians she serves every day.

Today, Dr. Lakieta “Elle” Emanuel continues to strengthen her impact through clinical care, education, advocacy, and community building. Through her leadership and business endeavors as the CEO of ELLEvate Autism, her non profit organization, A. Whitfield Legacy Foundation and her broader work across organizations, she remains deeply committed to improving lives and expanding access to compassionate support. Her story reflects resilience, vision, and a lifelong passion for helping others communicate, connect, and thrive.