Lead the change: Von Washington, Jr.
Von Washington Jr., (M.A.'94, Educational Leadership) showcases his passion for giving back to the community and philanthropic nature in the work that he does. He explains, “Giving back is the most important thing to do.” He has dedicated his life’s work to Kalamazoo and does his best to help someone every single day. He notes it may be directly, for example by donating things to Goodwill, or simply by recycling as a way to “preserve your community.” Washington affirms that giving back doesn’t have to be profound to make a difference.
Washington is a Kalamazoo native through and through, attending Kalamazoo Central in the 80's and eventually making his way to Western Michigan University for his master's degree in educational leadership in the 90's. In 2005, he started his administrative career leading the city’s alternative high school and within two years he had risen to principal of his alma mater, Kalamazoo Central High School (KCHS). During his tenure at KCHS, the school met adequate yearly progress expectations and was removed from the failing schools list. In 2010, the school won the White House Commencement Challenge and played host to President Barack Obama at the graduation ceremonies. After two years of being the high school principal he was recruited to become the associate vice president of Southwest Michigan First, the region’s economic development agency tasked with stimulating industry growth. A year later he was tapped to provide leadership as the executive director of community relations for the Kalamazoo Promise. In 2016, Washington received the prestigious WMU Golden Apple Award for his positive impact on students through high standards, professional integrity and commitment to learner-centered education.
Although Washington entertained more lucrative opportunities, he knew his heart was in helping youth transition into adulthood.
Helping others realize their goals is one of Washington’s favorite things to do. Washington identifies that the challenges he has encountered in life are part of his driving force. He wants to make sure others don’t have to face the challenges that he did, if he can help it.
Washington hopes that one day people will say, “He dedicated his life to others.” This “ultimate compliment” is embodied by Washington’s selfless willingness to advocate for the youth of Kalamazoo, and his desire to serve those around him. His dedication to changing the human condition in any way he can leaves a lasting impression on everyone Washington meets.
Why Educational Leadership at WMU?
“I chose Western Michigan University because Dr. Charles Warfield, a professor in the program, reached out to me as he was trying to help African-American males get into administration in the school system," Washington states.
Who serves as your inspiration?
When asked to identify who in his life has inspired him, Washington shares that it was the teachers he had in school. He explains that they saw something in him that he couldn’t see and that they helped him “create focus and a direction.” Washington mentions that it wasn’t until several years later that he recognized the impression those educators left.
What advice do you have for today's leaders?
"It's tough to lead in today's society of such rapid change. It's more important than ever to have leaders that focus on equity and allow for people and their lived experiences to be present in decision making," Washington says.