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Toson Knight
Founding President at Caught Up
Toson Knight is a dedicated education professional and community leader in Detroit, Michigan. He served as Dean of Students at Detroit Public Schools from August 2018 to July 2023.2 Knight has extensive experience working with Detroit's youth, having personally mentored over 300 kids with a 90% success rate and guided 75 to college, including 40 to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).1
Currently, Knight holds the position of Division Director of Prevention and Diversion at Wayne County Michigan, a role he assumed in January 2024.2 He is also the Founding President of Caught Up, a nonprofit organization he established in January 2015 to provide positive social experiences, life skills, academic support, and re-entry services to young men in Southeast Detroit.2
Knight's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in History from Oakwood University (2008-2012) and a Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of Michigan.23 His career has encompassed various roles in education and public service, including:
- Deputy District Manager for the City of Detroit (2014-2018)
- Campaign Coordinator for Mike Duggan's mayoral campaign (2012-2013)
- Dean of Students at Academy of Warren (2011-2012)
- Youth Worker at Spectrum Juvenile Justice Services (2007-2008)
Knight is known for his commitment to empowering youth, particularly those from low-income and marginalized communities. His efforts have been recognized with several awards, including being named a Michigan Chronicle 40 under 40 honoree and receiving the alumni of the year award from Oakwood University.3
Highlights
I was actually surprised to get this graduation invite. Shawn! 🎉 Your story is truly powerful, and I am proud of your perseverance and determination. Despite facing challenges like being behind in credits and dealing with a significant loss, you never gave up. I had to make the difficult decision to remove you from East English Village, but in our last meeting, I assured you that I would continue to support you. Your hard work has paid off, and it fills me with joy to see how far you've come. Thanks for allowing me to witness your greatness! Well done, Shawn! Keep shining! 💪🏼
