Dr. Carliss Richardson-McGhee

is an educator, author, and community leader with more than 30 years of experience advancing literacy, education, and youth development. A former Head Start teacher and author of seven children’s books, she has dedicated her career to empowering children and families through education and cultural literacy. As Director of the United Negro College Fund in Los Angeles for 12 years, she raised record-breaking funds and helped secure scholarships for more than 1,300 students attending HBCUs. Dr. McGhee served as President of the Inglewood Unified School District Board of Education and is co-owner of Khocolate Keepsakes Children’s Literacy Museum. She is also deeply committed to expanding opportunities for students through STEM mentorship, helping young people develop the skills, confidence, and exposure needed to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She holds degrees in Early Childhood Education, Psychology, and Pre-Perinatal Psychology.