About Us » Staff
Chelly Ali-Watkins - Program Assistant
Chelly brings a full-circle perspective to her work. A proud alum of our high school and continuing education programs, Chelly joined our team as a Program Assistant in May 2025. She now plays a vital role in ensuring the success of student and mentor sessions—tracking attendance, supporting retention, and helping students feel seen and supported every step of the way.
Chelly has over seven years of experience in customer service, where she developed strong communication and problem-solving skills that now help her connect meaningfully with students, mentors, and staff alike. She also brings over five years of discipline and leadership from her service in the U.S. Army, where she learned the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and giving back.
A former student in our high school program, Chelly continued with us through our continuing education program while earning her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Forensic Investigations from Wayne State University. Her journey from student to team member is a powerful example of our program's impact.
“Denzel Washington once said, ‘At the end of the day, it's not about what you have or even what you've accomplished. It's about what you've done with those accomplishments. It's about who you've lifted up, who you've made better. It's about what you've given back,’” said Chelly. “It’s a powerful and fulfilling way to look at life and I use it as inspiration for my work.”
Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and raised on the east side of Detroit, Chelly is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (SPR 24). Her favorite color is purple and she beams when talking about her two nephews, two nieces, and one godson who keeps her laughing and grounded.