meet
Vandalyn Kennedy
International Speaker | Leadership Strategist | Consultant | Mentor

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Multi-dimensional aptly describes Chairlady Vandalyn Kennedy. Born in New York City into a family of educators, entrepreneurs, and faith leaders, Vandalyn's leadership and gifts have had a profound impact on the world.
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Her multifaceted identity is evident in her roles as a LEADERSHIP STRATEGIST, AUTHOR, PUBLIC SPEAKER, FAITH LEADER, MUSICIAN, and EDUCATOR. Through these avenues, she has positively affected hundreds of thousands of people and organizations across various sectors.
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As a transformative leader and change agent, Vandalyn delivers quantifiable results. Drawing from her extensive experience in leadership and strategic development, she founded Bridging The Gap Inc. (BTG), a solutions firm dedicated to helping individuals and organizations strategize for growth and best practices. BTG specializes in providing targeted leadership training for leaders in both secular and sacred environments. She has a unique talent for connecting and building relationships, helping individuals and organizations achieve their maximum potential.
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With a passion for youth, Vandalyn served as an Educator and Administrator in the New York City Department of Education for over 18 years and was the first Youth Pastor at her childhood church. Her advocacy work in the non-profit sector has spanned over three decades, making a lasting difference in countless lives.
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Vandalyn graduated high school at the age of sixteen, went on to earn a Bachelor's degree, and then two Master's degrees—one in Education from Sarah Lawrence College and another in Music/Music Education from Columbia University. Additionally, she obtained a Master of Divinity degree from Columbia University's Union Theological Seminary, focusing on Leadership and Preaching. She completed the Black Theology and Leadership Institute Certificate program at Princeton Theological Seminary and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership while working as an Adjunct Professor in New York City.
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As a faith leader, Chairlady Kennedy travels nationally and internationally, speaking to thousands as an itinerant minister. She is an ordained minister fluent in Spanish and has ministered in countries including Panama, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, and Spain.
In addition to her many roles, Vandalyn serves on the Chancellors Interfaith Advisory Council for the New York City Department of Education. She recently developed and implemented a nine-month Emerging Leaders Program with Movement.org to cultivate the next generation in New York City.
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Her influence and leadership have earned her recognition as one of the Church of God in Christ's 150 most influential women. Vandalyn was honored to be a keynote speaker at the 2019 Hampton Ministers' Conference and was featured in The New York Times as a "Woman in the Pulpit" to watch.
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She currently serves as Chairlady of the International Youth Department of the six-million-member Church of God in Christ, providing oversight and guidance to youth, young adults, and youth leaders.