Get to Know Dr. Kimberly Leverette

In August, Dr. Kimberly Leverette joined the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce as the Executive Director of Education & Training. In her role, she oversees all programs under Education & Training, including YouthQuest, TeenQuest, Summer Youth Initiative, Career Edge, Opportunity Youth RISE Group and Flint Promise.

Leverette brings 20 years of educational experience to the Chamber, as well as, a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching from Michigan State University, and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Maryville University. She has worked at Flint Community Schools as a teacher and assistant principal, and most recently, at the Pontiac School District as the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction.

Afterschool Download sat down with Leverette and talked about her new role.

What excites you most about your new role?

Being able to impact young people in the community. Working in education for 20 years, I am very passionate about issues that support and elevate young people to reach their fullest potential. I am especially excited to work with YouthQuest and to be a part of young peoples’ futures.

What goals do you hope to achieve in this role?

My main goal right now is making sure we look to enhance the programs we already have in place. I am actively listening and gathering evidence that will help our team make viable decisions that are in the best interest of programming. I also want to emphasize student voice and choice in this process to ensure what we are doing benefits the students.

How would you describe yourself and the work you do?

I am a developer. If I see a challenge, I not only want to solve the challenge but take that to another level. I like to solve problems and be hands-on and inclusive with my solutions.

What are you looking forward to in this role?

Working for the Chamber is different than the roles I had in the past. We are working in education, but the Chamber also works closely with the business community and in economic development. I am excited to learn how the various areas work together and to be a part of that work.