Carla Thompson Payton

Carla Thompson Payton is one of the foremost philanthropic leaders creating systemic change for children and families, promoting a more just economy. As the chief strategist and impact officer for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, she leads the creative and strategic direction of the organization's multi-billion dollar programming from design through implementation and evaluation. Thompson Payton has been honored for her leadership in early childhood education.

Essence magazine named her one of the “50 Women Who Made Us Proud.” She also serves on boards and committees for nonprofit associations and professional organizations. She wrote Black Girl Magic: C -suite Leadership in Philanthropic Organizations and has been cited in numerous news media for her expertise.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Syracuse University. She also holds a doctorate in educational and organizational leadership and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania.