Duncan Kirkwood

Duncan Kirkwood is Western New York advocacy manager for the Northeast Charter Schools Network. Before joining NECSN, Duncan was the Alabama State Director for the Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO), a national Black-led advocacy organization designed to increase access to high quality educational options for low income and working class families. As the director Duncan helped lead the effort to pass a charter school law in Alabama, an effort that failed twice before Duncan’s arrival to the movement. Duncan attended Alabama State University in Montgomery, receiving his degree in public relations and serving as the student body president. Duncan also has a Master's Degree in public administration from Ashford University, and served six years as an Army officer in the Army National Guard. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity incorporated. Duncan brings a wealth of experience and passion to the charter school movement. Duncan is the father of three children, two in traditional public schools, and one in a charter school, so he deeply understands the power of education options. Like LeBron James, Duncan is bringing his skills and talents back to his home town to improve the community that has shaped the person he is today.