Today, we’d like to introduce you to Kisha Stanley.
Hi Kisha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I have been in Atlanta for almost 35 years, from Connecticut. After attending high school in East Cobb, I knew I wanted to attend an HBCU. I attended both Clark Atlanta University and Spelman College. I have a Bachelor’s in Political Science and an MBA in Marketing.
I entered into non-profit after some time in Marketing and having a family; also being a caregiver to my mother. Prior to that, I worked for companies such as Miller Brewing Company, AIG, and Greenberg Traurig. United Way of Greater Atlanta (UWGA) was the bulk of my career in non-profit, starting out as a contractual campaign associate, which led to a full-time job in Volunteerism in 2014.
Building both the business model and team for that department was rewarding as we flourished with corporate engagement partnerships with Atlanta brands such as The Coca-Cola Company, Chick-fil-A, and Home Depot while acquiring new clients both locally and internationally. UWGA was a springboard for me to learn new skills while honing in on leadership.
I was blessed to build dynamic teams, build partnerships with corporations and other non-profit organizations, and work on projects that would leave legacies in our city and beyond. I ended my career at United Way as Vice President of Central Development & Engagement to forge a new journey as Executive Director at Odyssey, a transformative academic enrichment program for predominantly Atlanta Public School students from underserved communities.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not always. Like with any journey, there are successes and challenges. I was new to non-profit but I believed (and quite frankly, I knew) that I was supposed to be in my role. I entered a space that I was unfamiliar with and I didn’t have a roadmap. I had the credentials and hard work was entrepreneurial, and I believe that was seen.
Most importantly, the work that I was doing aligned with my personal passion and purpose and that is what keeps you in the hard times. You can’t do this work without truly loving the people on the other end; the recipients of what you give every day. Otherwise, you will quit or just look for what will result in personal accolades.
This work is done best when you are selfless and can see mission over money (don’t get me wrong, money is important!). What’s challenging in that space? lack of resources, bureaucracy, and lack of diversity.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Odyssey, Inc.?
Odyssey Overview Odyssey, a transformational academic program with a proven track record, works with motivated public school students to help improve their performance and instill a love for lifelong learning. The program targets Atlanta Public Schools students in rising grades 1 to 12 from underserved communities.
Odyssey started as an educational six-week summer enrichment program and has evolved into a year-round experience for over 300 students, focusing on STEAM — science, technology, engineering, art, and math — through a curriculum grounded in Project Based Learning. Odyssey encourages students to embark upon a quest for knowledge and a journey toward higher education.
Odyssey’s program supports students emerging primarily from economically disadvantaged Title 1 schools and challenging learning environments. Although our scholars may need the extra push, they exhibit a profound curiosity, exuberant motivation, and an enthusiastic drive to explore the world’s diverse perspectives.
Odyssey’s summer curriculum also exposes students to concepts they will cover during the upcoming school year but in a more creative, rich, and immersive environment. Our vision is to make a measurable impact on the academic achievement, career aspirations, and lives of Odyssey students. As life-long learners, they will emerge as positive forces, making lasting impacts in the communities in which they live and serve.
One of the unique aspects of Odyssey is that all associated costs, including transportation, school supplies, and meals, are entirely covered by the generosity of our valued donors, supporters, and corporate sponsors. As such, only a $35 registration fee as a sign of a family’s commitment is required.
ODYSSEY MISSION STATEMENT.
Odyssey Atlanta is a transformational academic experience designed to prepare, inspire, and support metro Atlanta students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed from first grade through college and beyond. Odyssey isn’t another status quo program. We understand the responsibility and work to develop 21st-century leaders who are well-equipped with knowledge and skills to change the world.
I believe you have to somewhat be called to this work to truly see it through a long game with some wins along the way in the short term. It’s not for the faint of heart, but when you understand the legacy in which we are creating, you welcome the challenges every day and turn those challenges into successful, gifted, and prepared leaders who will change Atlanta, and the world.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Quality time with my family; but coupled with that, I absolutely love the outdoors.
You can certainly find me on a trail or hiking one of the mountains on a beautiful day. Nature gives you clarity. Family is the investment that matters most. Skinny pop, Thai food, and boba tea probably compete for a close second!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.odysseyatlanta.org
- Instagram: @odysseyatlanta
- Facebook: @Odyssey Atlanta
- Linkedin: @Odyssey Atlanta
