Story #116: Darin McKeever, Mission Hill Alum and Co-Founder of Heads Up

Darin McKeever ‘96 co-founded Heads Up: a University Neighborhood Initiative, an organization that has had a transformative impact on educational equity in Washington, D.C. When in operation, Heads Up provided rigorous after-school and summer programs to elementary school children in the city's most underserved neighborhoods. As Executive Director for over a decade, Darin led the development of a literacy-based curriculum designed to equip students with the academic skills necessary for success in school and beyond. The organization’s unique model paired college students with young children as classroom tutors, creating a powerful mentorship dynamic that benefits both the students and the tutors. Under Darin’s leadership, Heads Up grew into the largest AmeriCorps program in the D.C. region, serving hundreds of children and inspiring a new generation of young leaders committed to strengthening their communities. Darin’s work with the organization had a lasting impact, demonstrating the power of education and mentorship to change lives and communities. He later on served as the Deputy Director for Charitable Support at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the President and CEO of the William Davidson Foundation.

Darin’s commitment to social service and community engagement was clear during his work with PBHA as an undegraduate, where he served in the Mission Hill program and as a Stride Scholar. His experiences at PBHA reinforced his passion for creating educational opportunities in underserved communities and helped shape his approach to nonprofit leadership. PBHA is proud of Darin’s invaluable experience in youth development and community organizing, and is excited for his future endeavors in philanthropy and advocacy.