Deneen Young

A seasoned administrative leader and holistic wellness advocate, Deneen is a dedicated administrative professional with 23 years of experience at Friends Select School, where she serves as the Administrative Assistant to the Upper School Director. A graduate of Lancaster Bible College (B.S. in Human Services), Deneen is a leader in fostering inclusive communities, serving as a co-advisor for the Black Student Union and founder of Sistah’s Chat, an affinity group for Black girls.

An accomplished author, Deneen has contributed her insights to the academic and wellness fields. She is the author of two vignettes, "The Administrative Assistant and Staff Member: Oh and Black" in the book White Women Who Teach Black Boys, and the book Movement is Medicine Anthology.

Beyond her administrative role, Deneen is the founder of YoungLife Coach~Beyond Fit, LLC, and Neen's Closet Boutique. As a certified fitness instructor, lifestyle coach, and motivational speaker, she is passionate about holistic wellness. She has founded two impactful organizations—Gurlz Get2gether and When Women Gather: It’s Necessary—to support women and girls navigating adversity.

Her commitment to service extends as an active community leader, Deneen serves as the Interim President of the Board for Adoption ARC, and is a former Co-Ambassador for Black Girls Run, and Philadelphia Committee Person for the 34th ward for 11 years. Guided by her faith and a 35-year marriage, Deneen resides in Philadelphia with her husband. Having raised two adult children educated in the independent school community, she brings both a personal and professional perspective to her work in education and wellness. She remains steadfast in her mission to help others “keep pressing and keep pushing.”