Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain | Educator, Storyteller, Cultural Ambassador & Community Leader

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Few individuals have dedicated as much of their lives to education, leadership, and community service as Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain.

Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr. Hankins-Cain built a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in education. Throughout her professional journey, she served as a classroom teacher, academic coach, principal, Director of Elementary Education, and Superintendent of Sankofa Shule Public School Academy, helping shape the lives of countless students and families. (jtc.courts.mi.gov)

A nationally recognized speaker, storyteller, and workshop presenter, Dr. Hankins-Cain has inspired audiences across the country through her work in education, cultural preservation, leadership development, and community engagement. Her many honors include the Sojourner Truth Award, the Whitney Young Award, and the National Storyteller Jackie Terrance Award, reflecting a lifetime commitment to service and empowerment. (TheChronicleNews)

Beyond education, Dr. Hankins-Cain continues to serve the community through civic and cultural leadership. She currently serves as President of the Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission and has worked to promote international understanding, cultural exchange, educational partnerships, and global citizenship. She also serves on the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission, continuing her long tradition of public service. (thelansingsistercities.org)

Dr. Hankins-Cain is also an accomplished author whose work celebrates family, literacy, and the power of storytelling. Together with her husband, the late Eugene Cain, she helped create a legacy of educational leadership that continues to impact future generations.

At The Chronicle News 40th Anniversary Legacy Gala, Dr. Hankins-Cain will present a powerful live portrayal of Mamie Till-Mobley, the courageous mother of Emmett Till. Through this moving presentation, she will honor the strength, resilience, and determination of a woman whose voice helped awaken a nation and advance the Civil Rights Movement. (Facebook)

As The Chronicle News celebrates 40 years of community storytelling, Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain represents the very qualities that have sustained our communities for generations: education, leadership, service, faith, and an unwavering commitment to preserving history while inspiring the future.

Legacy Gala Featured Presenter

Dr. Maxine Hankins-Cain

Educator • Author • Storyteller • Cultural Ambassador • Community Leader