Samuel D. Dickerson

About Samuel D. Dickerson

Samuel (Sam) D. Dickerson II is a visionary, relationship‑driven leader dedicated to strengthening communities through dialogue, partnership, and transformative programming. As Managing Director of Programs & Partnerships – Cleveland for the Rekindle Fellowship, he brings a strategic and culturally grounded approach to advancing Black–Jewish allyship and building sustainable community bonds across Northeast Ohio.With more than two decades of experience in education, community development, and social impact, Sam has led initiatives that center empowerment and collective progress. As Chief Executive Officer of A Better You (ABY) Community Resource Center, he oversaw programs focused on family stability and community resilience, including the ABY Container Freight Farm System—an innovative urban agriculture model expanding food access and workforce development. His leadership in this sector earned him a seat on Congresswoman Shontel Brown’s Agriculture District 11 Committee.Sam’s background as an instructional leader spans Glenville, Lincoln West, Elyria, and Normandy High Schools, where he improved school culture, academic performance, and community engagement. His experience in education continues to shape his approach to program design, facilitation, and youth development.A passionate advocate for young people, Sam serves as Chairman of the NAACP Cleveland ACT‑SO Program, mentoring high‑achieving African American students in the arts, STEM, humanities, and entrepreneurship. His commitment to cultivating excellence aligns with Rekindle’s mission of building bridges and nurturing leadership across communities.As a Rekindle Fellow, Sam contributed to a culture of dialogue, empathy, and shared responsibility. In his current role, he leads the Cleveland portfolio with a focus on strengthening partnerships, enhancing program quality, and designing experiences that deepen trust between Black and Jewish communities.Sam holds degrees in Psychology, Speech Communication, and Educational Administration, along with advanced coursework toward a Superintendent License and a Ph.D. in Urban Studies. He is a proud member, past president, and chaplain of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter.

Experience

1. Program Director Act-so Cleveland (Naacp)

   Naacp

   Jan 2018 — Present · Cleveland, OH, US

   Oversees youth achievement programming across 30 competition categories in STEM, humanities, performing arts, and entrepreneurshipRecruits and manages 40+ volunteer coaches, mentors, and professionals to support high school student developmentDevelops workshops, exhibitions, and coaching formats to prepare 150+ students annually for national ACT-SO competitionChampions inclusive student programming through partnerships with schools, community organizations, and sponsorsCelebrated for advancing culturally sustaining education and expanding scholarship pathways for underserved youth

Education

• PennWest Edinboro

  BA, Psycholgy / Speech Communication

  1991 — 1993

• Cleveland State University

  Special Education

  2001 — 2003

• PennWest Edinboro

  MA, Counseling

  1993 — 1995

• Muskingum University

  Superintendent Licensure

  2016 — 2020

• Ursuline College

  MA, Educational Administration Supervision and Leadership

  1999 — 2001