Former Congresswoman brings a wealth of leadership experience to advocate for public education and equity.
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation is proud to announce the selection of former congresswoman Kendra S. Horn as its new president and CEO. Horn’s diverse experience in leadership, coalition building and public service will drive the Foundation’s mission to support Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) in fostering excellence and equity for all students.
“Kendra brings a great deal of expertise to this position, including strategic planning, executive leadership, communications and coalition building, all of which will continue the positive work the OKCPS Foundation has done for the district and its children,” said Brent Hensley, board chair of the OKCPS Foundation. “Her passion for public education, combined with her commitment to making a difference in our community, makes her the ideal person to lead our organization.”
Horn served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2019 to 2021, where she championed bipartisan solutions and played a pivotal role in securing vital funding and legislation for Oklahomans. Known for her accessibility and results-oriented approach, Horn has a track record of driving positive change, including advocating for military families, leading federal oversight of NASA and advancing educational initiatives.
As a fifth-generation Oklahoman and proud product of Oklahoma public schools, Horn expressed her excitement to lead the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation and support its mission of advancing excellence and equity for all students.
“As a product of Oklahoma public schools, I am deeply honored to join the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation and to serve all of the students, families and educators,” said Horn. “Quality public education is essential to building a strong workforce, robust economy and thriving community. I know the power of working together to create lasting and positive change. Together, we can ensure that every OKCPS student has the resources, opportunities and support they need to thrive. I look forward to continuing the Foundation’s mission of advancing excellence and advocating for equity in our schools.”
Horn will begin transitioning into the role on October 21, working alongside current president and CEO, Mary Mélon-Tully, until her retirement at the end of 2024.
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ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
Created in 1984, the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance excellence, advocate for equity and build strong community support for lasting success in Oklahoma City Public Schools. The Foundation works closely with the District and business community to align strategies and priorities for sustained performance improvement. Please visit us online at www.okckids.com for more information on our focus areas and volunteer and giving opportunities.