Dr. Mahalia Hines

Dr. Mahalia A. Hines is known as a “force of nature” in education circles around the country. With more than 45 years of experience in the educational field, she brings a level of wisdom and candor that is unmatched. While raising her son, Lonnie Rashid Lynn, who is professionally known as COMMON, an Oscar, Grammy, and Emmy award-winning Artist, Dr. Hines was also breaking barriers in education.

Drawing from her extensive personal and professional experiences, Dr. Hines has recently penned an insightful manual, “Tomorrow’s Children: How to Raise Children to Stay Human in a High-Tech Society.” This guide reflects on timeless methods for parents and educators navigating the complexities of raising children in an era of advancing technology.

Dr. Hines’ experience began as an owner and leader of three pre-schools on Chicago’s historic Southside for more than 10 years. For the next 35 years, she served the community as a teacher and principal, working in elementary through high school grades in Chicago’s underserved communities. During her 15 years as a principal, she is known for revitalizing not only her high school but the surrounding neighborhoods as well, creating alliances with community influencers, and engaging parents and families in ways the community had never experienced.

From that legacy, Dr. Hines began professionally coaching school leaders of public and charter schools in urban areas across the country, which she continues today. She is committed to developing effective school leaders who will guide others to provide the best possible education for the children least likely to receive it.

Since retiring from the principalship, her involvement with children – which is her passion – has not diminished. Dr. Hines currently serves as Board President of the Common Ground Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by COMMON and Dr. Hines two decades ago dedicated to empowering and developing urban youth in the United States. Common Ground Foundation continues to reach thousands of youth across America. In 2017, Dr. Hines was appointed to the Board of Directors for The Obama Foundation. In 2011, then-Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel appointed Dr. Hines to the Chicago Board of Education, where she served for 8 years.

Additionally, Dr. Hines travels the country as a highly sought keynote speaker and panelist for numerous conferences on education and parenting and commencement for several colleges & universities. She has received multiple awards for her outstanding years of service and impact.

Dr. Hines received a PhD from the University of Illinois, an MBA from Northeastern University, and a BA from Central State University. She currently resides in Florida with her husband of 45 years.