Why I do this work
I grew up in a single-parent household after my parents divorced. I remember what it was like to struggle and to rely on assistance, including bread rations. Those experiences shaped who I am and continue to fuel my passion for helping families overcome barriers and build brighter futures.
Jacklyn A. Chisholm, Ph.D. is the President and CEO of Step Forward, one of Ohio’s largest Community Action Agencies, where she leads transformative programs focused on education, development, and empowerment. She is also the founder of It’s Worth It Consulting and the author of Leadership Lessons: Notes From and For the Journey. A passionate advocate for equitable access and community resilience, Dr. Chisholm has expanded Step Forward’s outreach and strengthened its mission to serve diverse and underserved populations.
A lifelong learner, Dr. Chisholm is a Harvard Business School alumna with additional executive education credentials from the Harvard Kennedy School, Wharton School, and Cornell University. She holds a B.A. in Medical Anthropology, M.A. in Psychological Anthropology, and a Ph.D. in Psychological Anthropology with a focus in Educational Anthropology from Case Western Reserve University.
Dr. Chisholm has broken barriers throughout her career, including as the first Vice President of Planning and External Affairs at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, where she led the $13 million construction of its Library and Archives. At Case Western Reserve University, she was the first to hold multiple pioneering roles, including Associate Vice President for Community Partnerships and Director of Community Relations.
Her work has earned widespread recognition, including the Crain’s Cleveland Business Notable Leader in Philanthropy, Smart Business Progressive Woman Award, YWCA Woman of Achievement, and the Council for Opportunity in Education National TRIO Achiever Award, among many others. A proud Leadership Cleveland alumna, Dr. Chisholm continues to be a trailblazer in education, advocacy, and transformational leadership.
What's one value that guides your leadership?
Integrity, compassion, and responsiveness. I believe strong leadership begins with listening, acting with purpose, and always putting people first.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Reading, crocheting, and spending time near the water. Those simple moments help me recharge and reflect.
What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I can easily lose track of time reading a great book or diving into an interesting YouTube series. I love learning and discovering new ideas.