Samaad Wes Keys
Senior Program Officer @Gates Foundation
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WORK HISTORY
Senior Program Officer @Gates Foundation
Spearhead strategic initiatives, overseeing a $100M portfolio and $38M operating budget, leveraging a large, diverse coalition to advance postsecondary reform across 200+ institutions. Developed a comprehensive framework for rapid program iteration and greater impact.Facilitated a broad review of the impact test-optional admission policies have on Black, Latinx, Indigenous and low-income students. Led development of a nascent strategic approach supporting intermediary partners, creating selection and assessment rubrics and prioritizing investments to equity-centered organizations.
EDUCATION
Westminster Choir College of Rider University
Bachelor's Degree, Music Education
Morehouse College
B.A., Psychology
Central Michigan University
M.A. Education, Curriculum and Instruction
The University of Georgia
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Higher Education/Higher Education Administration
ABOUT SAMAAD WES KEYS
Dr. Samaad Wes Keys is a seasoned higher education strategist, philanthropy leader, and institutional transformation expert with 15+ years of experience shaping national initiatives to drive equity, innovation, and student success. As a Senior Program Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—the world’s largest global strategic philanthropy—he leads investments that scale institutional transformation for colleges and universities with an interest in improving outcomes for Black, Latino, and Indigenous students and students from low-income backgrounds.A Morehouse College alumnus with a doctorate in higher education, Samaad has held senior roles at UNCF, APLU, and the Southern Education Foundation. He is also the founder of MomentumED Strategies and the Legacy Park Project—ventures designed to uplift communities, preserve legacy, and accelerate equity-focused innovation and outcomes.
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