February is a time to celebrate "We Love Our Alumni" and recognize the dedicated individuals who once walked the halls of Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) as students and have now returned as passionate educators.

One of those inspiring alumni is Kenyatta (Hill) Hill-Hall, a 2001 graduate of Ottawa Hills High School and now the principal at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPrep).

For Kenyatta, the decision to return to GRPS was deeply personal. Inspired by her father, Abraham (Abe) Hill, she felt called to give back to the community that shaped her.

“My fondest memories are the lifelong relationships I built with my peers and teachers,” she shares. “To now serve alongside former classmates and educators, and to bring in other alumni to contribute their talents and resources, fills me with pride.”

The passion and care she received as a student fueled her desire to return as an educator, hoping to instill that same sense of belonging and support in today's scholars and families.

Hill-Hall also cherishes her Montessori education experience, calling it “great.”

Her journey in education has been enriched by reconnecting with fellow GRPS alumni who now serve as her colleagues:

• Dr. Timothy Mabin was her first Assistant Principal at UPrep. They attended high school together and now, they work together as part of the southeast side administration team, forming a strong partnership.
• Derrick Martin, once the citywide student council president when Kenyatta was involved in student government, later became her English teacher. Now, he is a principal and a valued thought partner in leadership.
• Roselyn Maher, Kenyatta’s former 11th and 12th-grade English teacher, has witnessed her growth as a leader. Kenyatta deeply appreciates having Roselyn as a mentor and collaborator, continuing the same passion for students that she experienced at Ottawa Hills.

Kenyatta Hill-Hall’s story is just one example of the powerful impact of GRPS alumni returning to serve the next generation. Her journey comes full circle, proving that the love and dedication of educators can inspire students to follow in their footsteps—continuing the legacy of passion, care, and commitment to the GRPS community.

Principal Profile: Mrs. Kenyatta Hill-Hall