Donald Ruff

Background

About Donald Ruff

Donald M. Ruff, Jr. is the President & CEO of The Eagle Academy Foundation (EAF), where he is driven by a vision to empower young men of color and transform their futures. Raised in Harlem, Donald witnessed firsthand the disparities in education, and his journey, from under-resourced schools to leadership in educational organizations, has shaped his relentless commitment to dismantling these inequities. As a charismatic visionary, Donald has spearheaded initiatives and organizations at EAF, including The Eagle Institute, which provides technical assistance and professional development to educators nationwide, and Eagles Soaring Beyond, which focuses on college readiness, workforce development, financial empowerment, and social-emotional learning. As President and CEO of The Eagle Academy Foundation, he has had the privilege of impacting the lives of over young men of color across 65 cities. In addition to his success at The Eagle Academy Foundation, Donald’s visionary leadership has been recognized by City & State New York’s Above and Beyond Innovators and The Responsible 100, as well as Crain’s Notable Black Leaders, honoring his dedication to driving change and improving educational outcomes in New York City. Donald’s work is rooted in a passion for justice and service, driven by a commitment to ensuring that every young man of color has the opportunity to succeed.