Change in Leadership

We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Shelly Williams for her four and a half years of dedicated service as Executive Director of Access Academies. Shelly led during an exceptionally challenging time, having joined the organization in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the headwinds, she helped maintain critical fundraising efforts and secure new grants, re-energized our annual fundraiser, and brought on new board members with deep knowledge of the St. Louis region and its educational landscape.

Shelly’s leadership was marked by a clear vision, a profound understanding of our students’ and families’ needs, and a remarkable ability to tell Access’s story with passion and conviction. We are thankful for her many contributions and wish her all the best in her next chapter.

Carolyn Dubuque, longtime Director of Mission Effectiveness, has been named Interim Executive Director. Carolyn’s experience and steady leadership will help guide Access through this transition as we continue to strengthen our mission and expand our impact across the region.