Today we’d like to introduce you to S’ken Evans.
Hi S’ken, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey began from a quiet yet powerful belief planted by my grandmother, who raised most of her grandchildren in a single household while our parents faced significant personal challenges. She spoke into my life with a bold promise: I would lead our family toward a better future. At the time, I couldn’t see how that would unfold, but her words stayed with me as a guiding North Star. I became the first in my family to graduate from college, a milestone that felt like a turning point not just for me but for those who followed. This achievement inspired my mother, who had struggled with addiction for many years; today she is a retired teacher who recently earned her doctorate, a testament to what perseverance can unlock in a family. In my early years as an educator, I encountered both encouragement and skepticism. Some professionals saw potential in me, while others questioned or felt threatened by my presence as a young Black man in education. Before DEIA and the broader commitment to equity existed in practice, I faced labels and stereotypes about my ability to lead being cast as someone who could “manage black” families and students rather than lead a school. My grandmother, who also served as a pastor, repeatedly reminded me that she believed God had a calling on my life. She often said that God told her I was next to carry on the ministry and the work of the church. Today, I am honored to serve as a pastor while also serving in educational leadership at the school level. In both roles, I strive to ensure that people are not only hearing the word but are being healed and equipped through community programs such as food initiatives, and mentorship for young Black men and women, as well as outreach to the community at large. This dual focus has allowed me to impact both the church and secular world, aligning spiritual stewardship with educational leadership. Rather than accepting pigeonholes, I leaned into every opportunity to grow pursuing additional training, collaborating with colleagues, and proving my impact through student and family outcomes. I earned a reputation as a “leader practitioner” for my ability to turn around challenging situations, build trust with families, and raise student achievement.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I faced a series of challenging barriers early in my journey. As a young Black man in education, I encountered skepticism and even hostility from colleagues who doubted my leadership potential or felt threatened by my presence in school culture before DEIA and equity minded practices were widely embraced. I was often pigeonholed into roles that labeled me as someone who could “manage” black families and students rather than lead a school which I was doing anyway from the side lines, This limited opportunities to advance into leadership positions. Balancing the weight of family history and personal responsibility also proved difficult breaking through those expectations while pursuing higher education required immense perseverance, especially as my family navigated systemic challenges and personal hardships. A pivotal moment came when I was offered a Principal position, and accepted, the responsibility to turn around a struggling school. The person delivering the offer told me they didn’t believe I had the curriculum mastery or the capability to lead as principal without it. Rather than reacting defensively, I used that moment as fuel to prove them wrong. These experiences (just to name a few) being underestimated, facing bias, and rising to a high-stakes leadership challenge shaped me into the principled, impact-focused leader I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Principal of two schools (Elementary and Middle School) in Brooklyn NY in the Flatbush area. I have been in Education for over 15yrs doing various roles. I am also a Pastor and I pastor a church in Brooklyn, NY. I am a Frist time author, publishing my Frist book in 2025 titled “Tru’s Frist Day of School” which is dedicated to my son. Also, by fall of 2026 I would have published my 2nd book/guide for leaders titled The Six Truths of Leadership: Becoming an Effective Leader. I am also a gospel singer and a writer. A few years back I released a choir album and have released two singles. I am most proud of the impact that I have had on people as a Principal and a Pastor. Seeing the growth in the lives of the people (Adults/Children) that I had the chance to coach, lead, mentor and counsel have been the most rewarding. To hear them come back and say thank you is one of the most rewarding moments.
I had to ask someone what sets me apart from others and they shared my humility, the consideration of the whole person and my uniqueness of style and presence.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I always get lots of compliments on my Fashion, most would be surprised that I design my clothing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @skenevans/ @steunlimited
- Facebook: sken.evans
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-ken-evans-668865211/
