Kristen McDonald has joined the Foundation as senior program officer, and will manage the Foundation’s education and early childhood work. She brings to the Foundation 15 years of public policy experience, and was one of the architects of Michigan’s early childhood system, Great Start. McDonald most recently served as chief of staff for the Michigan Department of Education. Before that she was a policy advisor and federal legislative liaison for the Michigan Department of Human Services.

“Kristen is a talented individual who is committed to help us move forward the Foundation’s education agenda,” said Foundation President & CEO Carol Goss. “Her education policy experience in Lansing will help us push forward our belief that all kids deserve good schools.”

McDonald has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University.

“Strong communities are built upon strong schools, and I am proud to join the inspiring tradition here at The Skillman Foundation,” McDonald said. “I commit myself to working with other dedicated leaders and give every child the hope, the drive, and the education they need to live strong and meaningful lives.”

De’Angelo Alexander has joined The Skillman Foundation as a program officer. He comes to the Foundation from Charter Schools Administrative Services, where he served as senior regional director. Alexander will focus his efforts on the Foundation’s education program area.
“Our Good Schools program is a critical component of the Foundation’s mission, so we are pleased to be adding two highly capable people to the team,” said Foundation President & CEO Carol Goss.

Alexander, who is a native of Ohio, has a bachelor’s degree in Education from Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. He earned his Master of Arts in Education Administration from Marygrove College in Detroit.