Keith Leaphart facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Keith Leaphart
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| Secretary-Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission | |
| Assumed office July 5, 2023 |
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| Governor | Josh Shapiro |
| Preceded by | Wadud Ahmad |
| Personal details | |
| Born | February 9, 1975 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Spouse | Ebonne Ruffins |
| Children | 2 |
| Education | Hampton University (BS) Saint Joseph's University (MBA) Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur philanthropist physician |
Keith Leaphart is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, physician, and politician. He was born on February 9, 1975. Keith Leaphart is known for leading the Lenfest Foundation, being the CEO of Replica Creative, and starting Philanthropi, a company that uses technology for charitable giving. He also serves as the Secretary-Treasurer for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Growing Up in Philadelphia
Keith Leaphart grew up in West Oak Lane, Philadelphia. His mother, Etheyln, worked at the Free Library of Philadelphia. His father, Frank, was an electrician. Even though his parents separated when he was young, Keith stayed close with his father. From a young age, Keith showed a strong work ethic. By age 12, he was already working as a Paperboy.
Keith and his sister attended an elementary school in Northeast Philly. This was part of a program to help different communities come together. He went to schools in the School District of Philadelphia. He later graduated from Central High School.
College and Medical School
Keith Leaphart earned a scholarship to attend Hampton University. He graduated in 1996 with a degree in biology. He continued his education, earning two degrees in 2003. He studied at Saint Joseph's University and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
After his studies, he completed an internship at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. He then did his residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. After becoming a doctor, Leaphart worked as a substitute teacher. He taught at George Washington Carver High School for Engineering and Science.
Career Highlights
From Doctor to Entrepreneur
After finishing his medical training, Keith Leaphart thought about becoming a hospital CEO. However, he had already started a successful cleaning company while in medical school. This company led him to meet Gerry Lenfest, a billionaire and philanthropist from Philadelphia. They became good friends and business partners.
In 2007, Leaphart considered running for Congress. Mr. Lenfest even helped fund his early campaign efforts. But Leaphart decided not to run. Instead, he wanted to find ways that businesses could help people in Philadelphia. He worked with Mayor Michael Nutter as an executive. He advised the mayor on programs to help men who had been in jail.
Leading Businesses and Foundations
In 2009, with a loan from Mr. Lenfest, Keith Leaphart bought Replica Creative. This company specializes in design and printing. He transformed it into a top company in the digital world. Mayor Michael Nutter recognized Replica Creative as a leading small business in Philadelphia.
Since 2013, Leaphart has been the chairman of the Lenfest Foundation. In this role, he works to support young people in Philadelphia who face challenges. He also serves on several important boards. These include the Philadelphia Media Network, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and the Philadelphia Convention & Visitor Bureau. He is also part of Comcast's Joint Diversity Advisory Council.
In 2013, Keith Leaphart received the Vision for Philadelphia Award. This award recognized his efforts to help Philadelphia's youth and local economy.
Innovating in Philanthropy
In 2018, Leaphart launched Philanthropi. This is a "fintech" company, meaning it uses technology for financial services. Philanthropi helps people keep track of their charitable donations. It also helps them discover new causes they might want to support.
In 2023, Governor Josh Shapiro nominated Keith Leaphart. He was nominated to be the Secretary-Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. The Pennsylvania Senate confirmed him for this position on July 5, 2023.
Personal Life
Keith Leaphart continues to be a licensed physician. He works at Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital during nights and weekends. He lives in Overbrook Farms, Philadelphia and has two sons.
