Detroit Promise, which provides every eligible Detroit high school graduate with a tuition-free path to college or trade school, has appointed Onjila Odeneal as its first chief executive officer/executive director.
Odeneal, a Detroit native, first-generation college graduate, and seasoned education and policy leader, officially began her role on Oct. 1.
Since its launch in 2013, Detroit Promise has supported more than 6,000 students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent Detroit’s students from pursuing higher education.
Odeneal brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education, youth development, and statewide advocacy. She most recently served as senior director of policy and advocacy for the Institute for College Access and Success, where she secured historic financial aid investments and built coalitions to center student voices in Michigan’s higher education policy. She also served as acting executive director and deputy director of the Detroit College Access Network (DCAN) and has held leadership roles in financial aid and nonprofit consulting.
“Onjila is uniquely positioned to lead Detroit Promise into its next chapter,” says Iris Taylor, chair of the Detroit Promise board of directors. “She brings not only a deep understanding of the education landscape, but also her lived experience as a Detroiter who has walked the path many of our students are on today.”
As Detroit Promise’s CEO, Odeneal will focus on advancing the organization’s strategic priorities, which include increasing awareness of the program among middle-school and high-school students, strengthening partnerships with colleges and employers, and expanding student supports to improve persistence and completion rates.
“I am honored to lead an organization that has transformed the lives of so many Detroit students and families,” says Odeneal. “Detroit Promise has opened doors for thousands of young people, but we know that our work is not finished until students graduate with the skills and credentials to thrive in their careers and communities. I am committed to ensuring that every student in Detroit sees higher education not only as possible, but achievable.”
Detroit Promise is administered by the Detroit Regional Chamber and supported by partners including the Michigan Educational Excellence Foundation, 50 Detroit high schools, and 32 Michigan colleges and universities.
