DeVonté Payton

DeVonté Payton has a diverse work experience spanning multiple industries. DeVonté started their career in 2006 as a College Tutor Leader at the Peer Power Foundation. From 2007 to 2013, DeVonté worked at CarMax as a Sales Consultant/Mentor, where they facilitated the sales process and provided guidance to customers. In 2011, they joined KIPP Memphis Collegiate Schools as an Academic Advisor, managing a caseload of 250 students and coordinating tutoring services. In 2014, they transitioned to the role of Director of Student Recruitment & Enrollment, where they project-managed recruitment activities and trained school-based staff. In 2016, DeVonté became the Director of External Affairs at KIPP Memphis, leading communication efforts and managing media relations.

In 2017, DeVonté joined McDonald's as a Regional Marketing Supervisor, overseeing marketing and social media for 600 independent franchises. DeVonté executed marketing strategies, developed engaging content, and supported internal communications. In 2018, they moved to Shelby County Schools and took on the role of Advisor, School Development, managing the charter school authorization processes and reviewing applications. In 2020, they transitioned to the role of Manager, Community Schools, where they drove policy decision-making and provided support to a cohort of Community Schools.

Most recently, DeVonté Payton has become the Deputy Director of Strategy & Impact at Seeding Success, starting in 2022.

DeVonté Payton earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree in Marketing/Marketing Management, General from The University of Memphis in 2011. In addition to their degree, they obtained certifications as a "Getting Ahead in a Just-Getting’-By-World Certified Facilitator" from aha! Process in 2013 and as a "Bridges Out of Poverty Trainer" from aha! Process in 2012.