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Rudy Hobbs, a ��ɫ��Ƶ Detroit Board member, is a Lobbyist and Partner at Michigan Legislative Consultants and has worked in politics and government for nearly two decades. He served two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2011-2014, where his colleagues elected him the Democratic Floor Leader. Rudy is also a former elementary school teacher who’s passionate about fostering men of color in education. We asked Rudy about his inspiration for joining our board, the importance of representation in education, and his aspirations for the students of Detroit.

1. Why were you inspired to serve on ��ɫ��Ƶ Detroit’s board?

I was familiar with ��ɫ��Ƶ from my days as an elementary school teacher. During my first year of teaching in Detroit Public Schools, ��ɫ��Ƶ corps members were assigned to my classroom, and they were an invaluable member of my student’s learning environment. It is an honor to be in a position to support a program that gives so much to our students.

2. Why does representation matter in education and learning?

Representation in education is the reason why I became a teacher. In my entire schooling, I had one black male teacher. It is important for students to be able to have teachers who come with lived experiences that connect to our students. More importantly, having administrators and other decision-makers, who understand the students’ lived experiences, is vital to create a learning environment that encourages all learners to be their best.

3. Do you have a personal example or story of how having an educator who looked like you has positively impacted you?

My high school computer teacher saw potential in me before I could recognize my own talents. He saw leadership skills and a talent to teach others. Therefore, he helped secure my very first job working with kids as a latchkey aide at the neighborhood elementary school. A job that changed the trajectory of my life. I was confident that education was my career path.

4. What are your hopes for Detroit students, and how do you see ��ɫ��Ƶ Detroit’s role in realizing them?

My hope is that Detroit students experience a learning environment that comes with high expectations, committed educators, and a support network that refuses to allow them to fail.

��ɫ��Ƶ has long been a trusted partner in Detroit. We must continue to be the example for other organizations seeking to help Detroit students. Our corps members show up with open hearts and an unwavering willingness to assist the most challenging students in the classroom. They work hard to make authentic connections with the kids they serve, and our corps members are committed to seeing every kid succeed. We keep this approach, and we will always be good for the kids and community we serve.

We are grateful for Rudy’s commitment to Detroit’s students and the unique experience, expertise, and perspective he brings to the table. You can hear more from Rudy below: