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THE STORY OF A
Fighter.
Saunteel Jenkins is a force of nature—a relentless fighter for rights and a champion for the people. With a legacy of unwavering service and an undefeated record of impact, Saunteel embodies the spirit of resilience and leadership, driven by a deep commitment to transforming communities through empathy, action, and empowerment. Born and raised in Detroit, Saunteel embodies the spirit of resilience and leadership.
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As the daughter of a mailman and sales associate at Hudson’s, Saunteel grew up as the eldest of three, witnessing firsthand the struggles and triumphs of working-class life. These early experiences ignited Saunteel’s empathy and fueled her desire to make a difference. The tragic loss of her brother to gun violence further solidified her resolve, inspiring her to take up the mantle of fighting to reduce senseless violence and to advocate fiercely for youth.
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A proud graduate of Cass Technical High School and Wayne State University, where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work, Saunteel’s journey to academic success was anything but easy. Despite the financial challenges, she persevered, working full-time while attending college for over a decade. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her career as a social worker, policy expert, and leader, enabling her to tackle complex issues with compassion and insight. Saunteel’s commitment to social justice and equity has driven her efforts to create lasting change through innovative programs and initiatives.
Following her tenure on the City Council, Saunteel became the CEO of The Heat And Warmth Fund (THAW). In this prominent nonprofit organization, she continues advocating for social change and providing utility bill assistance to thousands of families annually. Her focus remains on empowering individuals and families like the one she grew up in, ensuring that everyone has access to the basic necessities that so many take for granted.
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In 2020, Saunteel faced a new battle: a diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer. True to her nature, she fought back with courage and determination, supported by her husband, Carl Bentley. Today, Saunteel is cancer-free—a testament to her indomitable spirit.
Saunteel Jenkins is more than a leader; she is a beacon of hope, resilience, and determination. Her unwavering dedication to building more robust, equitable communities inspires all who seek to make a difference. Through her leadership, advocacy, and service, Saunteel empowers the next generation of leaders to create a brighter future for everyone.
While at Wayne State University, Saunteel interned for the late Honorable Maryann Mahaffey, one of Detroit’s most effective City Council Presidents, who became a lifelong mentor. Initially unsure of the connection between public service and social work, Saunteel received life-changing advice from Mahaffey: “Social workers put band-aids on wounds caused by poor public policy. We need more good people creating policies on the front end to reduce the damage on the back end.” This insight propelled Saunteel into a career in public service, and after graduation, she became one of the nation’s youngest Chiefs of Staff, working alongside Mahaffey. In this role, Saunteel gained invaluable experience in policy-making and community engagement, learning the power of service and the importance of advocating for the underrepresented.
After a successful tenure in city hall with Council President Mahaffey, Saunteel returned to the community, providing free tutoring to students in underperforming schools, becoming a small business owner of Petite Sweets Baked Goods, and serving as Program Director at Mariners Inn Substance Abuse Treatment Center. Her impact was profound, as the lives she touched through her work were reflected in the support she received when she needed it most.
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In 2009, driven by her mentor’s words, Saunteel ran for Detroit City Council and won. From 2010 until 2014, she championed policies that promoted economic development, public safety, and the well-being of Detroit’s most vulnerable residents. With her late brother in mind, Saunteel co-created the Youth Violence Prevention Task Force, involving Detroit’s youth in historic policy-making. Saunteel made history herself, becoming the first council member in nearly a century to be elected President by her peers. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding the city through its most challenging moments, including its historic bankruptcy.
