About Us

Kristian King M. Ed. 

Co-Founder    

Kristian, a native of the West Englewood area in Chicago, brings over a decade of experience in youth development, program management, social-emotional learning, and mentoring. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Minnesota at Twin Cities and a Master of Education in Youth Development from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Kristian has a strong background in overseeing youth programs, managing partnerships and volunteers, and coordinating large-scale events that advance organizational missions. Her work includes serving as a School Culture and Social Emotional Learning Coordinator for Chicago Public Schools, where she was responsible for fostering a positive, inclusive environment that supported the well-being of over 150 students, as well as 30 teachers and staff members.

Her passion for mentoring has led her to guide first-generation college students through their undergraduate journeys while also inspiring elementary school students to express themselves through digital storytelling. Kristian’s dedication to youth development has left a lasting impact in both school and nonprofit settings across Chicago and Minnesota.

While her academic journey took her to the University of Minnesota, where she experienced diverse cultures, built lasting friendships, and studied abroad in Ecuador, Kristian’s heart ultimately brought her back home to Chicago. One of her most cherished memories was serving as an editing consultant for the gun violence documentary trailer, Trauma, for Chicago Television Network (CTVN).

Kristian is driven by her commitment to providing youth with life-changing experiences, creating spaces for them to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Dr. S

Co-Founder

Dr. S, a Chicago native, developed her passion for equity in high school while interning with an

advocacy organization supporting families displaced by gentrification. She has since dedicated

her career to advocating for Black and Brown communities, focusing on education and social

equity.

With over a decade of experience, Dr. S has effectively connected educational institutions and

nonprofits to serve students and their communities better. Her work has underscored the

importance of continued research, education, and advocacy to uplift historically marginalized

populations. 

Dr. S holds a BA in Sociology and Family Child Services from Northern Illinois University, a

Master’s in Public Administration with a focus on Nonprofit Management, and a doctorate in

P-20 Community and Education Leadership. She has also served on multiple nonprofit boards,

completed a fellowship with Stand for Children IL, earned a certificate in Advocacy from the

National Urban League Washington Advocacy Bureau, and completed the Emerging Leaders

leadership training with the National Urban League.

Currently, Dr. S serves as the Director of Research and Education at Target Area Development

Corporation. In her personal life, Dr. S enjoys spending time with her five children, family, and

friends, as well as reading, working out, and cooking.