Luke Schmitt
Luke Schmitt is a non-profit director and educator with proven results in creating equitable and inclusive programs and organizational cultures. He has spent the past 15 years as a non-profit Director in global non-profit that serves adolescents. He has focused on creating equitable access to marginalized communities and people groups. He is experienced in leading organizational change and transforming culture/values that guide and inform healthy systems and practices. Luke has successfully advocated for and pioneered DEI initiatives and programs, diagnosing and dismantling inequitable structures and inspiring rebuilding with a vision and plan for the flourishing of all.
As an educator, Luke is most at home creating space for self-discovery and collaborative learning. He develops culturally-responsive curriculum for urban after-school and mentoring programs. Regularly speaking and facilitating within the urban diverse community, he is the training coordinator for new staff within his organization.
As a community leader, Luke leans heavily on the work of Brene Brown for empathetic leadership models to connect people to their passions. Drawing from multiple faith traditions, he creates space for people and groups to grow in identity and purpose.
Luke receives his most valuable learning as a citizen of the city of Chicago, a foster and adoptive parent, and being a #girldad. His formal education includes a BS in Elementary/Middle Education from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater and his MA in Christian Ministry with an Urban Ministry certificate from North Park Theological Seminary. Additionally Luke trained under the BIPOC leadership and philosophy of Christian Community Development.
In his down time, you’ll find Luke and his wife adventuring with their girls, dwelling in nature, growing and cooking real food, laughing with loved ones, and traveling by bike whenever possible.
“For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
― Nelson Mandela