Dr. Mike Feinberg is a transformative leader in education reform and social impact. As President and Co-Founder of the Texas School Venture Fund (TXSVF), Career For All, and WorkTexas, he is dedicated to increasing the availability and diversity of high-quality schools and workforce training programs in underserved communities. His initiatives have incubated and supported numerous programs, including Eastex Jensen Neighborhood School, WorkTexas Adult Trade School, and the Shawn M. Hurwitz Fellowship for education leaders.
Through WorkTexas, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Dr. Feinberg has established innovative workforce training programs with locations at Gallery Furniture and The Opportunity Center in Houston, targeting high school students and adults. WorkTexas provides specific skills training to help individuals secure jobs, excel in their careers, and advance professionally. Younger students also benefit from career shadowing opportunities and academic support, while training is accessible to older individuals who may not need a high school diploma.
Previously, Dr. Feinberg co-founded and served as the driving force behind KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program), a national network of more than 270 public charter schools serving over 100,000 students. Under his leadership, KIPP became a model for educational excellence and innovation, preparing students from underserved communities for college and career success.
Dr. Feinberg’s career began with Teach For America, where he taught bilingual fifth grade in Houston. In 1994, he co-founded KIPP Academy Houston, followed by the establishment of the KIPP Foundation in 2000 to scale the program nationally. His ability to create solutions in times of crisis was exemplified in 2005, when he founded NOW College Prep (New Orleans West) to serve students displaced by Hurricane Katrina, opening the school in just 10 days.
A recognized leader in education, Dr. Feinberg is the recipient of multiple honors, including honorary doctorates from Yale and Duke Universities and the National Community Service Award from Spelman College. In 2004, he was named an Ashoka Fellow, recognizing his innovative contributions to education and social entrepreneurship.
Dr. Feinberg earned his B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s in Education from National-Louis University. He and his wife, Colleen Dippel, are proud parents of two children, Gus and Abadit, and he is an avid supporter of high school football and AAU basketball.