Crystal Odom-McKinney is an experienced certified workforce development professional who partners with communities and businesses to expand their reach through the training and employment of job seekers. As National Director of the largest federally funded program for older adults who seek employment and training assistance as well as civic engagement, Crystal provides oversight and support to Easterseals multi state partners and territories.
With over 20 years in non-profit management and expertise in working with diverse populations, Crystal knows what truly drives community collaborations. How well you connect with the heart- beating people you’re trying to help and communicate your understanding to those stakeholders is vital in making the match! Crystal serves as the Advisory Board Vice President, for Illinois Diversity Council; Member of Chicago Jobs Council; Board Member (Region 5) for National Association of Workforce Development Professionals and is a Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP). Crystal is also an Alumni/sponsor for the American Society on Aging New Ventures in Leadership Program, Communications Chair and Building Families Together, an organization founded to support the needs of retuning citizens to reduce recidivism, Supporting sponsor of True Black Girl Magic Inc, Member of Chicago Jobs Council Front Line Focus Workforce Development Professionals Mentoring Program and Chicago Foundation for Women Cohort of the Willies Warriors Leadership Initiative; which elevates the leadership of Black women across the Chicago region, creating a pipeline and network of leaders committed to equity and justice in City.
Crystal earned her BS in Psychology, Tennessee State University and MA in Counseling Psychology, Lewis University, Romeoville, IL. Crystal is also proud veteran of the United States Armed Forces serving in Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm. Crystal resides in Chicago and is inspired daily by her husband and daughter.