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Chelly Ali-Watkins - Development Coordinator
A proud alum of our high school and continuing education programs, Chelly joined our team as a Program Assistant and now is a Development Coordinator. In her role, she helps manage sponsorships, donor communications, data entry and more while remaining diligent and passionate about student success.
Chelly has over seven years of experience in customer service, where she developed strong communication and problem-solving skills. She also brings over six years of discipline and leadership from her service in the U.S. Army, where she learned the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and giving back.
Chelly earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Forensic Investigations from Wayne State University. Her journey from student in our program to member of our team 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. 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.