Heather Jenkins, PhD

Dr. Heather Jenkins is President and CEO of The Literacy Lab, a national nonprofit dedicated to improving early literacy outcomes for young learners. With nearly 20 years of experience across K–12 education, nonprofit organizations and higher education, she has built a career focused on advancing educational equity and expanding opportunities for historically underserved students.

Prior to joining The Literacy Lab, Dr. Jenkins held senior leadership roles at uAspire, where she served as Chief People and Equity Officer and Chief of Staff. In these roles, she worked to foster an inclusive organizational culture and embed equity across leadership, communication and collaboration. Earlier in her career, she served as Managing Director of Service Impact and Evaluation at City Year Boston and as Director of Academics and Evaluation at Buffalo Prep, where she led the development of student-centered programs and evaluation strategies.

At The Literacy Lab, Dr. Jenkins leads efforts to address the national literacy crisis through evidence-based instruction and community partnerships. Founded in 2009, the organization works with schools and communities to ensure all children have access to the literacy skills needed for long-term success. Its initiatives, including the Leading Men Fellowship, focus on diversifying the education workforce and strengthening early childhood education.

Dr. Jenkins holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in education and a PhD in the sociology of education. She is also certified in New York State district leadership.