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Detroit Promise, Real Futures with Onjila Odeneal

Authentically Detroit

Authentically Detroit
Detroit Promise, Real Futures with Onjila Odeneal
Dec 02, 2025
Donna & Orlando

On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with the newly appointed and first CEO and Executive Director of Detroit Promise, Onjila Odeneal, to discuss how they’re opening the doors of higher education to Detroit’s youth. Onjila’s hiring marks a historic moment as Detroit Promise enters a new chapter.

Detroit Promise provides every eligible Detroit high school graduate with a tuition-free path to college or trade school. Since its launch in 2013, the program has supported more than 6,000 students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent Detroit's students from pursuing higher education.

As Detroit Promise’s CEO, Onjila will focus on advancing the organization’s strategic priorities, which include increasing awareness of the program among middle-school and high-school students, strengthening partnerships with colleges and employers, and expanding student supports to improve persistence and completion rates.

To learn more about Detroit Promise and their work, click here.

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