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 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
February 9, 1975
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 (born February 9, 1975) is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and physician. He is also involved in politics. Leaphart leads the Lenfest Foundation and is the CEO of Replica Creative. He also started Philanthropi, a company that uses technology for financial services (called fintech). Currently, he serves as the Secretary-Treasurer for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
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Early Life and Education
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, Keith stayed close with his father.
As a child, Keith and his sister went to an elementary school in Northeast Philly. This was part of a program to help different groups of students learn together. He attended schools in the School District of Philadelphia. Keith later graduated from Central High School.
Keith received a scholarship to attend Hampton University. He earned a degree in biology there in 1996. In 2003, he completed two more degrees. He studied at both Saint Joseph's University and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. After his studies, he trained at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. He also completed his residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Keith then worked as a substitute teacher at George Washington Carver High School.
Career Highlights
After finishing his medical training, Keith Leaphart wanted to become a hospital leader. But he had already started a successful cleaning business while in medical school. This business led him to meet Gerry Lenfest, a wealthy person from Philadelphia. They became good friends and business partners.
In 2007, Keith thought about running for Congress. However, he decided not to run. Instead, he focused on how businesses could help people in Philadelphia. He even worked for the city of Philadelphia for a time. He advised Mayor Michael Nutter on programs to help men who had been in jail.
Leading Replica Creative
With a loan from Gerry Lenfest, Keith bought Replica Creative in 2009. This company specializes in design and printing. He helped the company grow and become a leader in the digital world. Mayor Michael Nutter recognized Replica Creative as a top small business in Philadelphia.
Helping the Community
Since 2013, Keith Leaphart has been the chair of the Lenfest Foundation. In this role, he works to help young people in Philadelphia who face challenges. He also serves on several important boards. These include the Philadelphia Media Network and the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. He is also on the board of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitor Bureau.
In 2013, Keith was given the Vision for Philadelphia Award. This award recognized his efforts to help young people and boost the local economy.
Starting Philanthropi
In 2018, Keith launched Philanthropi. This is a "fintech" company. Fintech means using technology to make financial services easier. Philanthropi helps people keep track of their donations to charities. It also helps them find new causes to support.
Public Service Role
In 2023, Governor Josh Shapiro nominated Keith Leaphart for a new role. He was chosen to be the Secretary-Treasurer of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. This commission manages Pennsylvania's major toll roads. The Pennsylvania Senate approved his nomination on July 5, 2023.
Personal Life
Keith Leaphart is still a licensed doctor. He works at Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital during nights and weekends. He lives in Overbrook Farms, Philadelphia. Keith has two sons.