Jhae Thompson

About Jhae Thompson

An experienced nonprofit leader with over a decade of experience building and implementing educational programs to provide experiences and opportunities to marginalized communities, foster collaboration, build system accountability while delivering high-quality, data-driven services to improve equity, access, inclusion, and social outcomes.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Hit The Books

   Aug 2023 — Present · New York, NY, US

   Hit the Books (HTB) provides free afterschool educational programs, mixed martial arts classes, and peer mentorship to students in Harlem ages 6–14 (grades 2–8). Through a sports-based youth development approach, with tutoring and mentorship at its core and mixed martial arts as the “hook,” HTB equips young people with the skills, confidence, and discipline needed to thrive.As Executive Director, I lead the organization’s $1.25M operations, serving 200+ students annually and partnering with the Board to strengthen governance, expand membership, and build long-term sustainability. I’ve spearheaded the adoption of data-driven systems, diversified funding streams, and launched HTB’s annual benefit dinner. My work focuses on aligning organizational vision with execution, advancing educational equity in Harlem, and cultivating HTB as not only an academic intervention and fitness hub, but also a safe and supportive community where every child can set and achieve their goals.

Education

• La Salle University

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Strategic Communication

• Temple University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Communication, Journalism, and Public Relations

• Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy

  Certificate, Nonprofit Management Executive