Paris Woods

Paris Woods, Ed.D., is a first-generation college graduate from Harvard University with a diverse background in education and nonprofit leadership.

She has dedicated her career to helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds access high-quality educational opportunities, notably through initiatives at Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard University, and the QuestBridge Scholars program.

Paris co-founded College Beyond, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering students for success in college and life, where she significantly improved outcomes for vulnerable students and secured substantial funding.

In 2019, she joined Good Reason Houston to lead the Harris County Promise pilot, a partnership aimed at increasing credential and degree attainment for high school students.

Paris is an accomplished speaker and panelist at national conferences, recognized for her leadership in education. She is also a 2018 Pahara NextGen Leadership Fellow and a 2016 Gambit's 40 Under 40 honoree.

With a forthcoming book titled 'The Black Girl's Guide to Financial Freedom,' Paris shares her experiences and expertise in personal finance to empower others on their financial journey.

She holds an Ed.D. from The University of Texas at Austin, a Master of Education from Harvard University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University.

Paris Woods has held key positions at various organizations, including Chief of Programs at YouthForce NOLA and Managing Director at Good Reason Houston.

Her extensive background includes roles such as Founding Director of Alumni Support at New Orleans College Prep, Entrepreneur Coach-In-Residence at 4.0 Schools, and Academic Advisor at Harvard University and Phillips Exeter Academy.