The Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy (KELA) is pleased to announce its inaugural Director, Atifa Robinson. Atifa Robinson comes to us from UW-Madison, Division of Extension, the Racine, and Kenosha FoodWIse Nutrition Program where she managed a team of Nutrition Educators that empowered families to eat healthy, in that leadership role she had the opportunity to provide diverse programming for individuals ranging from early education to seniors.

“We are delighted to announce Atifa’s acceptance of the position. We eagerly anticipate her stewardship of the Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy as we collectively strive to deliver impactful programming within KELA,” stated Cindy Altergott, CEO of Kenosha YMCA.

Atifa has over 20 years of leadership experience in health and education, and she believes her passion for driving community impact, her dedication to serve, and build healthy communities to thrive, will be a key factor in moving the Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy forward.

“Kenosha Youth are smart and innovative, and with access to quality educational resources, mentorship, and guidance, youth can be prepared to enter the workforce with all the necessary skills to be an effective employee,” said Atifa Robinson, KELA Director.

This collaborative initiative between the City of Kenosha and local partners in youth development, education, technology, career development, and workforce preparation will offer opportunities for local youth, creating a pipeline of local talent to area colleges and future employers.
“With a commitment to fostering community revitalization and a passion to lead KELA in the era of innovation and community impact, I believe Atifa Robinson is an ideal candidate to bring the core values and mission of KELA forward. Her understanding of community challenges, along with her devotion for resilient and inclusive neighborhoods, and her commitment to collaborative growth, makes her an ideal person to lead KELA. On behalf of the City of Kenosha I extend a warm congratulations to Atifa and send a commitment to work with her,” said John Morrissey, City Administrator.

KELA stands as a pivotal component within the comprehensive strategy to revitalize the city’s older neighborhoods. Local partners include Carthage College, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Herzing University, Gateway Technical College, Jockey International, the Best Buy Foundation™, the Kenosha YMCA, gener8tor and the Mahone Fund.

“Ms. Robinson has the requisite skill set and temperament necessary to manage the growth and development of KELA. Her professional background and exceptional leadership in Kenosha and throughout the state greatly contributes to her ability to coalesce the hybrid of partners for success,” said Tim Mahone, Chair of the Mary Lou & Arthur F. Mahone Fund.

The Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy is located at 2222 63rd Street. To learn more about current and upcoming programming at KELA contact Atifa Robinson at 262-898-5602.