Curtis Lewis

Dr. Curtis L. Lewis is a nationally recognized education leader, equity strategist, and policy advocate for transformative change in schools and communities. With more than 25 years of experience spanning K–12 education, higher education, and nonprofit leadership, he has dedicated his career to creating liberatory learning spaces where students and educators can thrive. Dr. Lewis is the Founder and President of Boldly Moving Education Ahead (BMEA), a national organization committed to transforming education through restorative practices, culturally responsive teaching, educator wellness, leadership development, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. He also serves as an Assistant Professor and Program Director for the Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum at Michigan State University, where he prepares and supports educators to lead with purpose, care, courage, and a commitment to creating more human-centered learning environments. Throughout his career, Dr. Lewis has served as a teacher, principal, district and network leader, nonprofit executive, professor, and advocate. He has led school turnarounds, developed leadership and educator pipelines, and helped shape policy and practice across multiple levels of the education system. His work has contributed to stronger student outcomes, expanded college access, improved school cultures, and a greater focus on the well-being and development of educators and school leaders. Dr. Lewis’s leadership and impact have earned numerous honors and recognitions throughout his career. Most recently, in 2026, he received The Detroit News Michiganian of the Year Award and The Skillman Foundation Visionary Award, recognizing his leadership, innovation, and commitment to transforming educational opportunities for young people and communities. These honors build upon a career of recognition for his contributions to education, leadership, and community impact. At the heart of Dr. Lewis’s work is a simple but powerful belief: education should be a force for liberation, not limitation. Whether working with students, educators, school leaders, policymakers, or communities, he challenges people to reimagine what education can be—and then boldly do the work necessary to build it.