Crystal Y. Sewell

Crystal Sewell is the chief human resources officer at The Kresge Foundation, and is charged with leading the strategic talent and human resource function.

She joined the foundation in 2008 as the inaugural director to lead the foundation’s newly established human resources department.

Previously, she served as director of human resources at the Toledo Museum of Art, where she led the talent and human resources function and the volunteer services program. During her 20-plus year career in non-profits, she has also held positions with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and The Henry Ford.

Crystal received her bachelor’s degree in public administration from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University. She holds both SHRM-SCP and SPHR certifications and has been honored by Crain’s Detroit Business for Excellence in Human Resources.

In addition to her work at Kresge, Crystal is also the founder and past chair of the Council of Michigan Foundations’ Human Resources Affinity Group and remains active with the Human Resources Networking Group in Philanthropy.

Crystal currently leads Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Lambda Pi Omega Chapter, as Chapter President. She also serves as an Ex-Officio Officer and past Board President of the Pearls of Promise Foundation, where she gives generously to support first-generation college students through transformative scholarship opportunities.

A native Detroiter, Crystal enjoys spending time with family and friends.