The teacher who had the biggest impact on Ebony’s life was Mrs. Valdez, her fifth-grade teacher. Mrs. Valdez created a learning environment that allowed every student to feel safe, challenged, and affirmed. She had high expectations, and her nurturing yet firm approach helped boost Ebony’s self-confidence and love of learning. This positive fifth-grade classroom experience later inspired Ebony to become a teacher.
As Vice President of Programs, Ebony will support grantmaking and programming for the Foundation.
Before joining the Foundation, Ebony was a Senior Program Officer at the William Penn Foundation, where she led grantmaking initiatives focused on K-12 education and teacher preparation. She also worked at two national nonprofits, working closely with schools and districts in various capacities, such as coaching educators, designing professional development, and developing systems to enhance educator support. Ebony is a former public school teacher who taught in the Head Start program and middle school. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Professional Writing and Communications from Purdue University and a Master’s in Education from Mercer University.
In her free time, Ebony enjoys hiking, traveling, concerts, and spending time with family and friends.
