Dr. Kimberly MacKinney believes leadership is never a solo endeavor. Throughout her career in education, she has witnessed the transformative power of women who encourage, challenge, and champion one another. From her earliest days in schools to her current role as Executive Director of Secondary Schools, she has been guided by a commitment to service, advocacy, and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
A passionate mentor and community builder, Kimberly has dedicated her career to empowering young people and developing the next generation of leaders. As a classroom teacher, she created California’s first high school Women’s Studies course, reflecting her belief that every student deserves to see themselves represented, valued, and capable of making an impact. Her work has consistently centered on expanding access, fostering belonging, and advocating for students whose voices are too often unheard.
Kimberly’s leadership extends beyond schools into the organizations and communities she serves. Whether mentoring young women through the American Legion Auxiliary California Girls State program, supporting aspiring leaders through statewide professional networks such as ACSA and CALSA, or championing causes close to her heart like the Pancreatic Cancer Network, she is driven by a belief that leadership is most powerful when it is shared. She credits much of her own growth to the collective wisdom, encouragement, and friendship of women who invested in her along the way, and she remains committed to paying that investment forward.
A lifelong learner and advocate for educational excellence, Kimberly holds degrees from California State University, Long Beach, California State University, San Bernardino, and the University of Southern California. She has been recognized by local, state, and national organizations for her contributions to education and leadership, but considers her greatest accomplishments to be the people she has supported, mentored, and empowered throughout her journey.
Kimberly lives in Riverside, California, with her partner, Daniel, and their goldendoodles, Sanders and Taters.