LaTrice McClendon

LaTrice McClendon is a bold, visionary leader at the forefront of Detroit’s resurgence driving transformational impact across philanthropy, education, and economic development.

As Director of the Detroit Program at Knight Foundation, she leads a high-impact portfolio of strategic investments that shape the city’s future. She champions initiatives that amplify Detroit’s cultural vibrancy, strengthen local institutions, and empower residents to lead change within their own communities. With disciplined strategy, innovation, and accountability at the core of her leadership, she ensures Knight’s investments produce measurable, lasting outcomes that advance inclusive growth and opportunity across Detroit.

She also serves as President of the Detroit Public Schools Community District Board of Education, governing Michigan’s largest school district. Elected in 2022 and selected by her peers to lead, she is steadfast in accelerating student achievement, strengthening governance, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and delivering transparent, results-driven progress for Detroit’s students and families.

Previously, as Market Executive and President of Detroit for Huntington Bank, she led a billion-dollar community plan advancing affordable housing, small business development, and financial inclusion.
Appointed by Gretchen Whitmer to the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC), LaTrice helps advance equity and economic opportunity across Michigan. She also serves on several other boards throughout Detroit, further strengthening her civic leadership and impact across the city.