DR. ILENE E. WILKINS

 President and CEO

Ilene Wilkins, Ed.D., is the long-serving President and CEO of UCP of Central Florida and Superintendent of UCP of Central Florida.  With more than 35 years of leadership experience, Ilene has guided UCP from a small early intervention program into one of the most innovative charter school systems in Florida—serving more than 3,000 children and families annually.

She holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Public Administration from Suffolk University, blending deep expertise in education systems, nonprofit management, and organizational development. Before joining UCP, Ilene worked extensively in foster care and adoption, shaping her lifelong commitment to ensuring every child receives the support, stability, and opportunities they deserve.

A respected statewide and national voice for education for all students, Ilene has secured significant federal and state funding to expand access to high-quality instruction that supports students from early childhood through graduation and into adulthood. She has been recognized as one of Central Florida’s Most Influential Leaders and is an active member of Leadership Florida’s Education Class, partnering with leaders across the state to elevate educational excellence.