Lynne Alexander, Chief Operating Officer for SOS Community Services
Tell us about your life’s work.
Lynne’s life’s work has always been rooted in service, education, and empowerment. A proud graduate of the University of Michigan, she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work there—laying the academic foundation for a career dedicated to strengthening families and uplifting vulnerable communities.
Coming from a family deeply connected to education—particularly special education—Lynne was influenced early on by the example set in her own home. Her mother was an educator, and conversations about learning, growth, and opportunity were woven into daily life. From a young age, Lynne developed a passion for helping vulnerable populations, especially families navigating challenges without adequate support.
At the heart of her work is a simple but powerful belief: families deserve compassion, not judgment. Lynne emphasizes that generational patterns do not have to repeat themselves. “There is no right or wrong,” she reflects. “It’s about asking—where does the relearning happen?” She believes every family has the capacity to grow when given the right tools, education, and encouragement. Her mission has been to empower parents with core skills and knowledge so they can build healthier, more hopeful futures for their children.
What inspired you to take up this type of work?
When asked what inspired her to pursue this path, Lynne speaks candidly about division in society. “Society tries to pit us against each other,” she says. Her work is her response to that reality—choosing instead to build bridges, foster understanding, and create spaces where families feel supported rather than judged.
What advice do you have for emerging black leaders?
To aspiring Black leaders and young professionals, Lynne offers advice grounded in resilience and faith: persevere. “Find your passion and honor your journey,” she says. Growth requires intention and a willingness to keep learning. She encourages young leaders to have faith and practice gratitude—even for the smallest acts of service. “Plant seeds as you grow,” she adds. “You never know what they will grow into.” For Lynne, leadership is not just about achievement; it’s about legacy.
Who are some black leaders you admire?
When reflecting on Black leaders she admires, Lynne points to Barack Obama for his perseverance, advocacy, and ability to turn adversity into progress. She also names Madam C. J. Walker and Jack Johnson—trailblazers who broke barriers as “the first” in their fields. What inspires her most, she says, is the strength it takes to push through when no one has gone before you. “What possesses them to break through those barriers? What keeps them going?” she wonders. It is that courage—to stand alone and still move forward—that she deeply respects.
What does black history month mean to you?
For Lynne, Black History Month is both celebration and education. It is a time to recognize not only the monumental achievements that shaped history, but also the everyday contributions of African Americans that impact our daily lives—often in ways we don’t even realize. It is about honoring both the “big things” and the “little things.” Most importantly, she says, it’s about remembering the heroes and sheroes in our own lives—the mentors, parents, teachers, and community members whose quiet acts of strength and service shape generations.
What is the biggest difference you hope to make in your life?
When asked about the biggest difference she hopes to make through her life and work, Lynne’s answer is simple: to live a life of service. Service to herself through growth. Service to her family and community through compassion. Service to society through advocacy and empowerment. “It all enriches our lives,” she reflects. Above all, she wants people to remember that there is always hope—and that, at the end of the day, we are all trying our best.
Through education, empathy, and unwavering perseverance, Lynne continues planting seeds of hope—trusting that the impact of her work will grow far beyond what she can see.