Students Rising Above Welcomes Eli Kennedy as New CEO
We’re thrilled to welcome Eli Kennedy as our new CEO! For over 25 years, Students Rising Above (SRA) has been a stabilizing force for first-generation college students, providing holistic support, mentorship, and opportunities needed to navigate college and launch careers. Eli shares that commitment and brings years of experience expanding access to education for students who need it most.
A Leader with a Passion for Opportunity & Equity
Eli Kennedy’s journey aligns seamlessly with SRA’s mission. As the first in his paternal family to graduate college, he experienced firsthand how the right academic and career support can shape opportunities. He’s built his career around making sure those opportunities exist for students who might not otherwise have them. As CEO of SMASH, he expanded STEM education access nationwide, growing enrollment from 250 to over 1,000 and securing record-breaking funding to sustain and scale the program. His leadership spans charter school development, workforce readiness, and strategic philanthropy, always with a focus on equity and breaking systemic barriers. Eli’s leadership is both strategic and deeply personal—rooted in collaboration, long-term impact, and an unwavering commitment to student success.
Listening & Learning: A Community-Centered Approach
As part of his transition, Eli will embark on a Listening and Learning Tour to connect with SRA’s stakeholders, including students, alumni, staff, volunteers, funders, and corporate partners, providing an opportunity for open dialogue about the future of SRA.
SRA invites students, alumni, funders, and community partners to participate in the Listening Tour and engage with Kennedy as he shapes the next phase of SRA’s journey. This is a chance for the SRA community to share what’s working, growth opportunities, and what’s needed to help more first-generation students thrive. Stay tuned for more information on dates, location, and registration.
Watch Eli’s introductory video here.
For media inquiries:
- Access our media packet here
- To schedule an interview with Eli Kennedy, please contact us at [email protected]
