Michelle Bonton

Michelle L. Bonton is a philanthropist, social entrepreneur, veteran educator and visionary leader with a passion to serve! She is committed to improving the quality of life for the marginalized and underserved by advocating for policies and developing and implementing programs that improve their economic and social capacity. Over the last 25 years, as a teacher, counselor, school leader, business woman, and policy specialist, Michelle has been blessed to impact the lives of thousands. By providing a model, experiences and proper tools, she empowers others to be active participants in their own success. Through servant leadership, a commitment to integrity, and keen business acumen, Michelle founded KYDS, Inc., a youth based non-profit that employs almost 200 people, has an annual budget in excess of $15,000,000, and touches the lives of thousands of children each year. Michelle led KYDS, Inc. for 15 years before retiring in 2019, and passing the leadership mantle forward to her daughter.
Ever the visionary and change agent, upon retirement in 2019, Michelle founded and now leads Harris County Cultural Arts Council (HCCAC). The organization is the first and only arts and cultural institution in Unincorporated East Harris County, a cultural desert. HCCAC’s mission is to expand arts access to underserved communities and preserve, share, and celebrate the history and culture of Black people. The work is carried out through a one year artist residency that provides free studio space, exhibition opportunities, mentoring, supplies, and a financial stipend to emerging and mid-career Black creatives.
Michelle holds an M.A. in counseling from PVAMU, and a B.S. in Professional Writing from UHD She is an effective, compelling speaker, former radio talk show host, grant writer, and community advocate. She is also a policy specialist who regularly gives public testimony on proposed laws and regulations on education and community matters to state lawmakers.