AJ Jefferson has turned personal experience with homelessness into leadership that expands educational opportunity for students facing similar uncertainty. As President and CEO of the Homeless Children's Education Fund, she has grown the organization from $1 million to $3 million and tripled its reach from 400 students to more than 1,200.

Her leadership connects immediate support with lasting opportunity. The Childhood to Career Continuum serves students from pre-K through age 24, with a 96% graduation rate. Winnie's Wagon brings tutoring and wraparound services directly to students through a mobile educational unit. Teen CEO helps high school students explore career pathways.

Jefferson also brings youth homelessness into national view through appearances on Good Morning America and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Her advocacy has earned honors including the Pittsburgh Business Times C-Suite Award.

By strengthening services, reach and infrastructure, Jefferson is building an organization equipped to help more young people pursue education, careers and stability despite the disruption homelessness brings to childhood.