GDYT Executive Director to join Imaginable Futures as U.S. Team Principal

GDYT Executive Director to join Imaginable Futures as U.S. Team Principal

Marie Hocker, Executive Director of Grow Detroit’s Young Talent (GDYT), is leaving the organization to join Imaginable Futures, a global philanthropic investment firm, in the role of Principal, U.S. Team. Her last day with the city’s summer youth employment program will be April 23rd.

Marie joined GDYT in August 2019 and has been responsible for leading efforts to raise $12 million in annual funding, and establishing employer partnerships for GDYT.

“Marie’s contribution has been invaluable over the last two years, particularly when faced with the challenges of operating in a pandemic,” said Nicole Sherard-Freeman, Group Executive - Jobs, Economy, and Detroit at Work for the City of Detroit. “In 2020 when COVID-19 hit and other cities canceled their summer youth programs, the Mayor made a commitment that GDYT would continue to provide opportunities for Detroit youth. Marie’s dedication, perseverance, and ability to pivot to take the majority of the program online ensured that we were still able to provide opportunities for over 8,000 youth in 2020, and will do so again in 2021.”

“While we are sorry to see Marie leave, we are happy for her to be taking charge of this new opportunity,” said Terri Weems, President of Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation, which operates GDYT on behalf of the Mayor’s office. “In her new role, she will work with organizations and leaders across the U.S. to increase postsecondary success for parents and improve early learning experiences for young children through investments, advocacy, and research. We wish her every success in this important work.”

The Mayor’s office announced steps are underway to advance GDYT as part of the City’s overall youth strategy. While that process is underway, Angela Polk will take over the reins as Interim Director. Angela joined the GDYT program in 2019, reporting to Marie Hocker. She will report to Detroit at Work Chief Programs Officer Stephanie Nixon.