Hailee Clack
Hailee Clack is a Flint-raised advocate, speaker, and emerging public policy leader committed to expanding educational access, strengthening youth civic engagement, and advancing equity in underserved communities. A graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, she is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy & Administration at The George Washington University. Her academic and professional journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for public service, leadership development, and creating pathways for historically underrepresented students to thrive.
Professionally, Hailee serves as a congressional staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives, where she contributes to the legislative process while gaining firsthand experience in governance and public policy. Her work on Capitol Hill, along with her involvement in national civic engagement initiatives, centers on demystifying government systems and empowering young people to understand how policy decisions are made and how their voices can influence change. She is particularly focused on equipping emerging leaders with the tools, networks, and confidence needed to engage meaningfully in civic and political spaces.
As the founder of The FBC Initiative, Hailee leads a nonprofit dedicated to increasing college access and civic awareness among students in Flint, Michigan, and Genesee County. Through programs like the annual Flint to HBCU Forum, she connects students to mentorship, scholarships, and opportunities that broaden their educational horizons. Guided by her belief in community accountability and “lifting as you climb,” Hailee continues to inspire others through her advocacy, mentorship, and vision of returning home to invest in the next generation of leaders.
• Hampton University - B.A.
• FBC Initiative - Nonprofit serving low-income students in Flint
• Michigan and Genesee County
• Annual Flint HBCU Forum
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, my family, and the community that raised me. Growing up in Flint, I learned the value of staying grounded, serving others, and seeing the potential in both people and place. Public service runs deep in my family, and witnessing the challenges our city has faced—from leadership gaps to the water crisis—has fueled my commitment to advocate for meaningful change. Despite the negative perceptions of Flint, I see resilience, grit, and greatness in its people, and my work is guided by a vision to uplift my community and create lasting impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: don’t accept “no,” and view rejection as redirection. When I decided to start a nonprofit, many said I was too late, but I refused to let that stop me. I realized that if I waited for others to take action, change wouldn’t happen—so I took the initiative myself. I’ve been fortunate to gain opportunities outside of Flint, attend a prestigious HBCU, and secure internships on the Hill, and I feel a responsibility to share the knowledge and resources I’ve gained. Never forget where you come from, and don’t be afraid to lift others as you climb.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is addressing the leadership gaps in Flint that became especially evident after the water crisis, as well as combating the negative narratives about our city and advocating for children who have often been overlooked. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities to make a difference, such as increasing exposure to HBCUs, organizing college tours, and expanding access to resources around financial aid and scholarships for Flint-area students. By focusing on these initiatives, we can empower the next generation and help reshape the future of our community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are faith, family, and the support of my community. I am deeply committed to service and civic engagement, and I strive to lead with gratitude, resilience, and a mindset of lifting others as I climb.
Locations
The FBC Initiative
Swartz, MI 48473