Influential Woman · Nonprofit
Kimberly Bussey Lewis
President and CEO, Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc.
Tyler, TX 75707
Her Story
About Kimberly
Kimberly Bussey Lewis is the President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc., where she has provided visionary leadership for more than 13 years. With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and social enterprise sector, she previously served as CEO of Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area in West Virginia for a decade and led another nonprofit organization focused on adult education, prior to that. Before entering the nonprofit sector, Kimberly built a successful career as a journalist, spending 12 years covering community issues for The Post and Courier in Charleston, South Carolina. Her passion for service and desire to create meaningful change inspired her transition into nonprofit leadership, where she could make strategic decisions to better support individuals, families, and communities in need. As CEO of Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Kimberly oversees a wide range of workforce development initiatives designed to remove barriers to employment and create pathways to economic opportunity. She leads 16 workforce training programs, including IT training programs offering globally recognized certifications, manufacturing, retail, and customer service initiatives. Her leadership also supports individuals with disabilities through specialized employment opportunities, a manufacturing facility, and a network of 15 retail stores. Through her commitment to innovation, workforce development, and inclusive leadership, Kimberly continues to expand the organization’s ability to transform lives through the power of work. Kimberly Bussey Lewis is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, international speaker, consultant, executive coach, podcaster, Forbes contributor, and LinkedIn advisor dedicated to advancing leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with a minor in Communications from College of Charleston, where she was the first graduate to complete the communications minor, and earned a master’s degree from Marshall University. She completed a Certified Executive program through Goodwill Industries International and additional certifications in artificial intelligence and life coaching. Kimberly is a Global Good Fund Fellow and serves on the boards of Workability International and The Global Good Fund, while remaining active in professional and community organizations including the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Tyler Executive Women’s Network, Love Thy City and Rotary International. She attributes her success to her commitment to helping people become their best selves and is guided by values of compassion, continuous learning, equity, and inclusion.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my genuine desire to help people become the best versions of themselves. After beginning my career in journalism, I gained a deeper understanding of the needs and challenges within my community, which inspired me to transition into work where I could take a more active role in creating positive change. My passion for service, commitment to meaningful impact, and dedication to making thoughtful decisions that benefit others have guided my professional journey and continue to shape my approach today.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to get involved in my community and build meaningful connections through networking. Leadership requires taking initiative, showing up, and making your voice heard. I have learned that true leaders do not wait for opportunities to come to them—they step forward, engage with others, and actively contribute to creating positive change.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to actively engage with their communities and embrace opportunities to develop their leadership presence. Building relationships, staying involved, and making your voice heard are essential to creating meaningful impact. Leadership is strengthened through visibility, collaboration, and a willingness to step forward and contribute.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are staffing, talent retention, and the financial pressures faced by nonprofit organizations. Maintaining a strong workforce while navigating limited resources requires innovative solutions and a continued focus on supporting and developing employees. At the same time, there are significant opportunities through workforce training programs, talent development initiatives, and adapting to the evolving needs of today’s workforce. By embracing change and investing in people, organizations can build stronger, more resilient communities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, service, continuous learning, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. I believe in helping people become the best versions of themselves while recognizing and supporting the challenges individuals face as they work to care for their families and build better futures. I am dedicated to creating opportunities for others, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, and continuing to learn and grow so I can make a meaningful impact in my community.
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