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Jessica Hauser

Executive Director
Downtown Boxing Gym (DBG)

Jessica Hauser is Executive Director of the Downtown Boxing Gym (DBG), a nationally recognized, Detroit-based nonprofit organization breaking down barriers and providing vital resources to help students succeed. Now in its 17th year, DBG serves boys and girls ages 8-18 with continuing support to alumni through adulthood. The free, out-of-school time program has a 100% high school graduation rate since its inception and has received national recognition and support from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Library of Congress.

DBG’s transformative mentorship, individualized academic plans and measured impact are setting the standard. Through the program, students gain confidence and score higher than their peers nationally in significant markers for future success including self-efficacy, or the belief they can succeed; adaptability, or the ability to apply and adjust skills in a difficult setting; and a sense of agency, the belief they can make positive changes in their community.

Jessica first walked into DBG in its original smaller location in Detroit more than a decade ago thinking she was going there for boxing lessons. A PhD student studying international children’s rights at the time, she was struck by what she saw – students learning, working together, helping each other, exercising, and being mentored in a safe space filled with love and mutual respect. Jessica joined DBG as Executive Director a short time later and has been with the organization ever since.

A passionate nonprofit leader, Jessica continues to help DBG navigate significant growth enabling the program to serve a diverse and growing group of amazing young leaders. She has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Oakland University and completed coursework in International Children’s Rights at the University of Michigan.

Jessica is a member of the Michigan Afterschool Partnership, a coalition that champions statewide access to quality and equitable out-of-school time programs. She has also served as a board member with the Detroit chapter of Women in Sports and Events (WISE). In addition, she successfully participated in Leadership Detroit and is a Crain’s 40 Under 40 honoree.


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