COME HOME Alumna Feature: Kerrie Mitchell

May 11, 2023

Throughout her career, Kerrie Mitchell, President and CEO, Detroit Public Schools Foundation, has taken pride in creating a voice for the leaders of tomorrow. Mitchell brings her marketing, communications, and fundraising skills to create and enhance educational opportunities for Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD).

A Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School alumna, Mitchell is dedicated to helping the next generation of DPSCD students to grow and thrive. Read on to learn about what Mitchell has to say about the Come Home festivities and being a DPS Alumna:

Are there any specific memories of your time at DPS that stick out to you? Any DPS teachers or staff members who made an impact?
I had a gym teacher in elementary school named Mr. Long who pushed me forward and encouraged me to be healthy. In tenth grade at King High School, Ms. Jennings helped me become more empowered in math, which was not one of my strongest subjects. She found a different way to teach me and helped me get my grade up to a B, which made me feel accomplished.

What does it mean to you to be a DPSCD alumna/alumni?
It means taking a togetherness approach and realizing that when we came through DPS, we had a lot offered to us. We need to reach out to students today and give back. The intricate part is reaching out to the students who you relate to. It is so meaningful when you help your neighbor. During my time with the Detroit Police Athletic League, I have galvanized programs that help children in need. That has always been my commitment, time and monetarily. I create programs collaborating with people that help meet philanthropic needs.

What are you looking forward to for this Homecoming celebration?
I am a co-chair because of my role with the Foundation. I am looking forward to connecting with everyone and being around like-minded individuals. I am excited to see everyone’s success and find ways we can turn that success into ways we can help children currently in the program.

What advice would you give DPSCD students?
Do not give up. If you have obstacles, it is easy to throw in the towel. Take one success at a time and celebrate yourself. Also take time to smell the roses and surround yourself with people who can help get you to the next level.

For more information on the Come Home Alumni Gala, please visit https://www.dpsfdn.org/alumni/comehome/

A Warm Welcome to our New President & CEO, Kerrie M. MitchellDPS Alumna Leonora King Gives Back to Detroit Youth Through Tennis