Dr. Anne Keke shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Anne, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. When have you felt most loved—and did you believe you deserved it?
When I lost my mother, people from different paths of life and different backgrounds in Aurora came together to make sure that I went home to bury my mother. I never realized how loved I was as a person in Aurora. I don’t know if I deserved it, but I was really grateful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an immigrant from Côte d’Ivoire, and have proudly called Aurora home for 20 years. Since being elected to the Aurora Public Schools Board in 2021 and now serving as Board President, I’ve led with a commitment to equity, accountability, and student success.
Under my leadership, APS secured over $1 billion in school infrastructure investments through Ballot Measures 5A & 5B, delivered an 8% teacher pay increase, hired 269 new mental health professionals, and brought in Superintendent Dr. Michael Giles to lead the district with a fresh vision and accountability.
I have been a strong voice for closing pandemic learning gaps, recruiting more teachers of color, and making APS a safe and inclusive place for all families. I have worked very hard to be an accessible board member, and I continue to build partnerships that expand opportunities and resources for students and their families.
With a proven record of delivering results, I’m running for re-election to keep Aurora Public Schools moving forward—because every student deserves the chance to succeed, and every family deserves a seat at the table.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother. I know mothers love their children, but in my case, my mother was always telling me how strong, smart, and a good leader I was. She would always be amazed by how much I wanted to serve people and point out my servant leadership skills, way before I realized I was a servant leader.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. As a leader, these moments happen at least once. I almost gave up when a particular vision of mine did not come to pass. But I am grateful for good friends who encouraged me and reminded me that I am in this to serve the kids and the larger Aurora community. This work is not just about my personal goals; it’s about making a meaningful difference for the people who make up our beautiful city. That’s why I ran, and that’s why I serve.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
This is not so cultural, but it is a value of mine, and that’s being a voice to the voiceless and advocating for those who don’t have the platform or the voice to do so for them. Those are our students, our immigrant families, and the less fortunate and less privileged, because I know how it feels to be voiceless, weak, unseen, and unheard. That’s my pledge.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I stood for what was important in society and made a difference for the people I serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Annekeke.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/AnnKeke
Image Credits
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