Footsteps to Success is dedicated to empowering businesses and school districts by providing tailored support and resources for pregnant or parenting teens in grades six through twelve.
About Dr. DeLena Alexander
Dr. DeLena is a seasoned principal with decades of experience, most of which were as the leader of Georgia Chaffee Teenage Parent Program (TAPP) in Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky. Georgia Chaffee TAPP provides comprehensive services for middle and high school teenage mothers including a childcare development center, medical clinic, and family social services.
Dr. Alexander has a diverse work history and a natural affinity for caring for people at their most vulnerable, beginning with her career in healthcare as a respiratory therapist. That experience deepened a passion for supporting those in need and led to working in education with high-risk economic populations. From teaching to principal, she created a safe space and opportunity for students to thrive. A consistent 96% graduation rate, resulting in over 600 young women earning a diploma under her leadership. Today, Dr. Alexander continues her mission to inspire and empower young mothers to build their confidence and change the trajectory of their children.
A visionary leader and a fierce advocate for students, Dr. Alexander is passionate about changing the lives of students she serves. Her educational philosophy is that all students can achieve at the highest levels in spite of challenges they face if the educators responsible for them can tap into their unreached potential. Known for her authenticity, relatability, and keen ability to influence with compassion, Dr. Alexander is also a mentor for aspiring leaders and champion for equity and inclusion.
Dr. Alexander received her Bachelor of Science, Associates in Pan African Studies and Respiratory Therapy from the University of Louisville. She later returned to the University of Louisville where she earned both her Master’s and Doctorate in education.
Dr. Alexander is married with two sons, and is a grandmother (Gam Gam) to two grandsons. She enjoys sports and is an avid fan of the University of Louisville football and basketball teams.
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated
- National Association Secondary School Principals
- Kentucky Teacher Internship Program Mentor
- Association for Middle Level Education
- Big Picture Learning Network School
- Project Based Learning (Formerly Buck Institute) Network School
- Superintendent Certification
- Rank 1 – Principal Certification
- KP2 (Instructional Leader: All Grades, Level II)
- Principalship: Statement of Eligibility
- Teaching Certificate Science/Social Studies
- National Education Association
- Kentucky Education Association
- Kentucky Association of School Administrators
- Board Licensed Respiratory Therapist
- U of L Doctoral Advisory Board Council Member
- Superintendents: Principal Communication Committee
- Ed.D. Educational Leadership
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Bachelor of Science
- Associate Degree Respiratory Therapy
- Associate of Arts Pan African Studies
- Principal District Level Meetings
- Schools to Watch Presenter
- SPARC Hope Breakfast Fundraiser
- PBL Works (Formally Buck Institute) Panelist
- NE Christian Church
- Kenwood Height Christian Church
- Minority Teaching Recruitment Program @ University of Louisville