Keaun Barrett, M.Ed.

Keaun Barrett, M.Ed., is a dedicated educator, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader committed to bridging educational gaps and empowering underserved communities. As the Founder, President, and Board Chairperson of Purpose Driven Learners, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Keaun leads initiatives that provide free and low-cost tutoring, career skills training, and second-chance education for students, justice-impacted individuals, and adults seeking workforce development.

With a strong commitment to educational equity, Keaun also serves as the CEO of Higher Purpose Learning Tutoring Service LLC, an award-winning tutoring and career training company recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and Corporate Vision as the Best Tutoring and Career Skills Training Company for two consecutive years. His company has also received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, has been ranked in the top 10 on Tutors.com, and was named the #1 tutoring service in Portsmouth, VA, by the Quality Business Awards. Through Higher Purpose Learning, Keaun has been instrumental in providing high-quality academic support, job training, and mentorship to learners of all backgrounds.

Keaun holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and is certified in Equity Advocacy by the National Institute of Economic Development. His leadership extends beyond business and nonprofit work, as he has completed premier board training through United Way's Project Inclusion Program and serves on the Advisory Board for the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce. He previously served on the Advisory Board of William & Mary's Washington Center, where he contributed to educational policy discussions and student development initiatives.

Motivated by personal experiences and a deep understanding of the challenges facing marginalized learners, Keaun has dedicated his career to creating accessible learning opportunities. Through Purpose Driven Learners, he is building a supportive ecosystem where students, returning citizens, and individuals with learning barriers can receive the education, mentorship, and workforce training needed to thrive.

His vision is clear: to break cycles of educational inequity, restore hope in learners who have been counted out, and empower individuals to turn their aspirations into reality.