February 26, 2025 (Washington, D.C.) — The Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) is excited to share the appointments of Dr. Keenan King and Reverend Vanessa Oliver Ward to our Board of Directors. Keenan’s direct connection to schools and districts and his support of the Community Schools strategy make him a crucial addition to our Board, while Vanessa’s background working in hyper-local contexts to tackle poverty aligns perfectly with IEL’s role in changing systems through people.
Dr. Keenan King serves as the Executive Director of the Kent School Services Network (KSSN), where he leads the place-based Community School initiative in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reverend Vanessa Oliver Ward is the President of the Omega Community Development Corporation (Omega CDC) and Pastor Emerita of the Omega Baptist Church. Her leadership in these roles has helped create housing and other resources for people in the Dayton, Ohio community.
IEL Board Chair Dr. Stacy Holland expressed her enthusiasm about the addition of both Board members, stating, “Dr. King and Reverend Ward bring to our table a wealth of experience. Their deep commitment to their communities and the impact of their organizations’ work during their tenures is a testament to the power of love in action. We look forward to working with them to further IEL’s mission.”
IEL President Eddie Koen added, “Whether it is supporting Community Schools, school-family-community partnerships, or deepening systemic change, Dr. King and Reverend Ward’s backgrounds are very aligned with the work we do at IEL. These two appointees are an incredible value-add to our Board team, and we’re confident that Keenan and Vanessa will further expand our ability to innovate with leaders across sectors to support children, youth, and families.”
“As the leader of a lead agency implementing Community School initiatives in Michigan, I turn to IEL for best practices, innovative approaches, and a network of colleagues dedicated to advancing education excellence nationwide,” said Dr. King. “I am honored to join the Board and committed to elevating the voices of students, educators, community partners, and those who experience our schools daily and understand firsthand what is needed for all young people to thrive.”
“I am honored to accept the invitation to join the Board of the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL), shared Reverend Ward. “With over 30 years of deep community engagement and a commitment to championing systemic transformation, I look forward to contributing to IEL’s mission. Together, we will continue to foster shared leadership, build stronger systems, and ensure that all young people are positioned to thrive. I am excited to collaborate with fellow board members and the broader IEL community to make a lasting impact.”
For more information about the Institute for Educational Leadership, please visit our website at www.iel.org