Ms. Yolonda Lavender
Yolonda Lavender is a native of Kalamazoo, Michigan, community influencer and champion, creative and culture producer and innovative leader. Yolonda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Western Michigan University with concentrations in nonprofit leadership, social work and communication and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration with a nonprofit leadership focus at Western Michigan University. Yolonda is a Certified Nonprofit Professional receiving her certification through the national organization, the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. Yolonda currently serves as the Grant Program Manager for the Stryker Johnston Foundation. Yolonda previously served as the Executive Director of the Black Arts & Cultural Center in Kalamazoo, Michigan. As an avid arts advocate, since 2012 Yolonda has served as the founder and CEO/Chief Creative Officer of Soul Artistry LLC, an arts consulting company that specializes in experience curating, artistry development, artistic provision, arts nonprofit and artist self-care consulting. Additionally, Yolonda is also a globally recognized performing artist with the independent label Truth Tone Records. Yolonda is a singer, songwriter and recording artist and has produced three studio albums to date. Yolonda prioritizes utilizing her knowledge, expertise, gifts, passions and talents to engage, uplift and empower marginalized groups.