
DETROIT — Matrix Human Services, a 118-year-old nonprofit committed to empowering individuals and families to break the cycle of poverty, announced the appointments of Nicole Pilgrim as Chief Operating Officer and Dr. Bobbie Hayes Goodrum as Vice President of Early Childhood Programs.
With over two decades of extensive leadership experience, Pilgrim brings a wealth of expertise in human resources, organizational strategy, and operational excellence to her new role with Matrix Human Services.
As COO, she will spearhead strategic initiatives, oversee daily operations,and drive organizational efficiency to further the mission of providing innovative programs and services that create sustainable change in the Detroit community.
“Nicole Pilgrim’s leadership is a game-changer for our organization,” said Starr Allen-Pettway, CEO of Matrix Human Services. “Her strategic insight and operational expertise will strengthen our ability to serve Detroit’s most vulnerable populations and achieve sustainable change.”
At Matrix Human Services, Pilgrim will implement innovative programs, optimize service delivery and leverage data to meet the evolving needs of the community. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, empowerment and continuous improvement.
“This is more than a role – it’s a responsibility to our Detroit community,” Pilgrim said. “I am deeply honored to be promoted to Chief Operating Officer at Matrix Human Services. Together, we will build a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence that drives meaningful change. Our programs will not just serve; they will empower, uplift and transform lives, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.”
Goodrum a seasoned educator and transformational leader with more than 25 years of experience, brings an unparalleled passion for improving educational outcomes, advocating for equitable opportunities for all children, and driving positive change and collaboration among staff, families and community stakeholders.
She has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive learning environments, reducing barriers to success, and amplifying the voices of students and families.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Goodrum to Matrix Human Services,” Allen-Pettway said. “Her deep commitment to educational equity, coupled with her track record of leadership excellence, aligns perfectly with our mission to empower families and provide the tools needed for lifelong success.”
In her new role, Goodrum will lead Matrix Human Services’ early childhood development initiatives, working to enhance educational outcomes for Detroit’s youngest learners and their families. She aims to ensure that every child served by Matrix has access to high-quality, inclusive and supportive early learning opportunities.
“Education is the great equalizer – it has the power to break down barriers, ignite potential and transform lives,” Goodrum said. “I am incredibly proud to join Matrix Human Services and dedicate myself to shaping brighter futures for Detroit’s youngest learners. Our children are the heart of this city’s future, and by uniting with families, educators, and the community, we will ensure every child has the tools and opportunities they need to thrive, succeed and lead. “Together, we can lay the foundation for Detroit’s next generation to build a legacy of hope, resilience and excellence,” she added.