For Dr. Vondale E. Singleton Sr., mentorship isn’t just a program—it’s a personal mission born from pain, perseverance, and purpose. A product of Chicago’s Southside and the Ida B. Wells Housing Projects, Dr. Singleton endured the loss of his mother to addiction and the absence of an incarcerated father. Yet through the support of a selfless mentor and unyielding faith, he rewrote the script for his life and the lives of thousands of young men.
Reflecting on a defining moment in his journey, Dr. Singleton points to the impact of his mentor, Steven Robertson. “His investment of time and love saved my life,” he says. That mentorship inspired CHAMPS—Culturally Helping And Making Positive Success—a movement that has empowered countless young men facing similar adversity. Under his leadership, CHAMPS earned a visit with President Obama after producing an award-winning music video for the White House Film Festival, putting a national spotlight on their mission.
What motivates Dr. Singleton to continue this work, despite the challenges? “I believe salvation plus education is an unbeatable combination,” he affirms. It’s a philosophy that drives him to merge academic excellence with spiritual guidance—ensuring that young men have both knowledge and moral grounding to thrive.
His perspective on leadership has evolved into one of service and legacy. “Leadership is not about titles,” he says. “It’s about how many people you lift while carrying your own burdens.” Through his roles in education and his partnership with the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper initiative, Dr. Singleton continues to model resilience, discipline, and compassion.
As a husband, father, and community leader, Dr. Singleton’s story inspires a generation to dream bigger, rise stronger, and give back deeper.
About Dr. Vondale E. Singleton Sr.
Dr. Vondale E. Singleton Sr. is a Chicago-based educator, Emmy-nominated community leader, and founder of CHAMPS Male Mentoring Program. A first-generation college graduate with degrees in Elementary Education and Marital and Family Therapy, he has spent over 23 years transforming lives through mentorship and education. Honored by the White House and the Illinois Fatherhood Initiative, Dr. Singleton is a beacon of hope and purpose. He lives in Chicago with his wife, Dr. Patrina Singleton, and their two children, continuing his mission to uplift young men into greatness.
