Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Promise Zone Authority (DPZA) has named Onjila Odeneal as its new Chief Executive Officer. The DPZA, which manages the Detroit Promise Scholarship, made the announcement on October 30, 2025.

Odeneal is recognized for her work in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and policy advocacy. As a Detroit native and first-generation college graduate, she brings both professional experience and personal understanding to her new role. "Her appointment is poised to guide the organization toward a future of expanded impact and opportunity for Detroit’s students," according to the DPZA.

The DPZA was established by the Michigan state legislature to fund scholarships through portions of taxes collected from Detroit’s Promise Zone. It operates independently under a Board of Directors and works with the Detroit Regional Chamber to support student success through the scholarship program.

The Detroit Promise offers tuition-free access for eligible residents pursuing associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, or technical certificates at 32 colleges across Michigan. Since 2013, the Chamber has managed the scholarship program and continues to employ about 20 staff members who support it from their office in Detroit.

Odeneal's previous roles include Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy at The Institute for College Access and Success (TICAS), where she worked on national efforts related to higher education affordability. She also served as Deputy Director and Acting Executive Director at the Detroit College Access Network (DCAN), focusing on increasing college attendance among city students.

Currently, more than 8,000 students have received scholarships through partnerships with 32 colleges and universities as well as 61 high schools in Detroit. Additional information about participation can be found at detroitpromise.com.