simone hardeman-jones
“Dismantling the systems that for far too long have promoted an inequitable and unjust reality for so many people.”
Simone Hardeman-Jones is a visionary leader, strategist, and changemaker whose current work as the Founding Executive Director of GreenLight Fund Twin Cities has redefined how philanthropy can drive systemic change. Using a community-centered and resident-led approach, she facilitates game-changing collaborations that enable residents—particularly those historically impacted by racial and economic inequities—to thrive.
Simone’s deep understanding of how systems of inequity shape the lives of those most underestimated in our communities has defined her career. Before leading GreenLight Fund Twin Cities, she built a distinguished career in public policy, serving in key advisory roles, including as a senior advisor to two U.S. Secretaries of Education in the Obama Administration. She also worked as a policy advisor to United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and the late Senator Kay R. Hagan (D-NC). A recognized expert in education policy—particularly in diversifying the education workforce—her work has been shared nationally through partnerships with The Education Trust and the National Council on Teacher Quality. She has served on numerous national committees and advisory groups and played a critical role in political campaigns, including serving as Director of African American Outreach for Senator Klobuchar’s 2006 U.S. Senate race.
In addition to her role at GreenLight Fund, Simone is a sought-after thought leader, frequently speaking on community-driven philanthropy, racial equity, and systems change. She serves on the boards of Children’s Minnesota Foundation, which supports the largest pediatric health system in the region; Friends of the Children – Twin Cities, the African American Leadership Forum, Great MN Schools, the National Council on Teacher Quality, and Teach For America Twin Cities.
Born and raised in Minneapolis, Simone is deeply connected to her community. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and the City of Lakes Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. She resides in the Twin Cities with her husband and son. Simone holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree from The American University in Washington, D.C.
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Momentum Summit, Martha’s Vineyard, 2024 – Panelist on "Funding Innovation: The Key to a Locked Door"
AS FEATURED IN...
"I was so impressed with Simone’s strong background, passion for this work, and commitment to our community. I have no doubt that her leadership combined with GreenLight’s proven model will bring innovative, effective solutions to address our region’s toughest challenges."
Karen Richard, SVP & CHRO, Andersen Corporation & GreenLight Fund Twin Cities SAC Member
Looking in the Mirror: Five Years Later
Every mirror tells a story—
not just of what we see, but of what we’ve been taught not to see.
Each morning, we glance in the mirror. We adjust a collar, smooth a strand of hair, check the reflection that prepares us to face the world. But what if we paused? What if we looked longer?...
More from GreenLight Fund
(Credit: Lorie Shaull, Flickr Creative Commons)
Work with Simone...
Keynote Speaker
PHILANTHROPIC ADVISORY
