Where Conversation, Community, and Culture Meet.
The Common Ground Collective LLC is a Houston-based consulting and community-centered enterprise aligning strategy, people, and purpose across education, business, and community spaces.
Our Vision
Our vision is to build spaces, strategies, and partnerships where conversation, community, and culture are not an afterthought—but the foundation. We believe in creating environments where ideas scale, people connect, and impact is sustained over time.
Who We Are
The Common Ground Collective LLC is the umbrella organization anchoring our work at the intersection of strategy, community, and culture. We operate as a parent company focused on helping leaders and organizations design solutions that are both operationally sound and people-centered.
We bring together strategic advisory, community development, and cross-sector collaboration—spanning education, corporate, nonprofit, and public sector partners—to move ideas from vision to implementation.
Our Divisions
The Common Ground Collective LLC is built on distinct yet connected entities that serve leaders, teams, and communities.
Now Launching
Common Ground Advisors
Common Ground Advisors is a strategic advisory firm focused on helping leaders grow with clarity and intention. We specialize in business development, growth strategy, and education-focused consulting that bridges the gap between vision and execution.
Focus Areas:
- Business Development & Growth Strategy
- K–12 & Education Systems Consulting
- Public-Private Partnerships
- Market Expansion & Go-To-Market Strategy
Who We Serve
- School Districts & State Agencies
- EdTech & Corporate Organizations
- Nonprofits & Foundations
“To align strategy, people, and purpose to drive measurable outcomes and sustainable growth.”
The Common Ground at 77021™
Coming Early 2027
The Common Ground at 77021™ is an upcoming physical space in Houston where coffee, culture, and community converge. Designed as a hub for conversation, collaboration, and connection, it will host gatherings, events, and experiences that center Black culture, creativity, and collective care.
At 77021, you’ll find:
- Conversations that matter
- Curated events and gatherings
- Space for collaboration and co-creation
Meet Our CEO
Ken Bordelon
Ken Bordelon is a purpose-driven executive leader with over 25 years of experience spanning education, business development, government relations, and strategic partnerships. A proud graduate of Texas Southern University, Ken has built a cross-sector career that bridges K–12 systems, higher education, corporate leadership, and public policy—consistently aligning strategy, people, and resources to drive measurable outcomes and sustainable growth.
He has held senior leadership roles with organizations such as the Texas Education Agency, KIPP Texas Public Schools, and Catapult Learning, where he led multi-state business development efforts across the Southeast. His work has impacted millions of students and educators, including overseeing a $136.5M ESSER portfolio, shaping statewide stakeholder engagement strategies, and contributing to large-scale educational transformation initiatives.
Ken’s experience extends into national advisory and policy work, having served with the Texas and National Association for College Admission Counseling, as well as advising organizations and policymakers at both the state and federal levels. His ability to navigate complex systems while building trusted relationships has positioned him as a respected voice in education and organizational strategy.
The launch of Common Ground Advisors reflects a defining moment in Ken’s journey—transforming professional disruption into purpose. What once appeared as uncertainty became clarity: a calling to operate not within a single lane, but as a master of adaptability, innovation, objectivity, and connection across industries. This perspective now defines his work—bringing people, ideas, and opportunities together to create lasting impact.
Above all, Ken is a devoted husband to his wife, Shon, grounding his work in faith, family, and a commitment to building something meaningful for generations to come.
Selected Experience & Impact
Executive leadership and advisory experience across K–12 systems, state agencies, nonprofits, and growth-stage organizations.
Leadership Experience
- Former Senior Director, Programs & Project Management – KIPP Texas Public Schools
- Director of Stakeholder Engagement & Strategy – Texas Education Agency
- Director of Partnerships (South) – National education services organization
- Advisory support to K–12 systems, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations
Measurable Impact
- Led statewide engagement strategy impacting 5M+ students across Texas
- Oversaw $136M+ in federal education investments across 50+ schools
- Supported large-scale academic improvement initiatives across multi-region networks
- Designed and executed stakeholder engagement strategies at state and district levels
- Advised on adoption of leading instructional, mental health, and operational solutions
Areas of Expertise
Strategic Partnerships
Business Development & Revenue Growth
K–12 Systems & Policy Alignment
Organizational Effectiveness
Go-To-Market Strategy
Stakeholder Engagement
Company names referenced reflect professional experience and industry familiarity. No affiliation or endorsement is implied.
Let’s Build What’s Next—Together.
Whether you’re leading a district, launching a new initiative, or stewarding a community-centered venture, we’re here to help you move from idea to execution with clarity, care, and measurable impact.
Share a bit about your work, and we’ll follow up with a tailored next step.