Dr. Michael John McKnight Sr., a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a seasoned public administrator and financial leader. He currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at DDD, overseeing the financial strategies that drive downtown revitalization. Dr. McKnight is eager to return to New Orleans on a more full-time basis to be more involved with his family and the upbringing of his youngest son.
Before joining the DDD, Dr. McKnight held the role of Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor – Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, where he managed the Louisiana State Museum System. His career includes serving as Assistant Council Fiscal Officer for the City of New Orleans and as a State Budget Management Analyst 4 with the Louisiana Division of Administration.
Dr. McKnight is a proud graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Tulane University. He completed a Master’s Degree in Public Administration at the University of Phoenix and capped off his academic achievements with a Ph.D. in Public Policy, specializing in Public Administration Leadership, from Walden University in 2017.
Beyond his professional roles, Dr. McKnight is an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, and multiple Prince Hall Masonic bodies: Progress Lodge #16 (Master Mason), Platta Temple #15 (Shriner), Holy Royal Arch Masons, Royal and Select Master Masons, Knights Templar and Eureka Consistory #7 (32nd Degree Mason).
In his spare time, Dr. McKnight enjoys spending quality time with his family, particularly building Legos with his son. He also enjoys attending events hosted by the various organizations he is proudly affiliated with, reflecting his deep commitment to both his family and his community.