Detroit, Michigan, United States, April 2025 – Detroit PAL has announced the appointment of Joyce Johnson-Maples as its new Chief People Officer, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace that uplifts the city’s youth through athletic, academic, and leadership development programs.
Prior to joining Detroit PAL, Joyce Johnson-Maples served as Chief Human Resources Officer at Holy Cross Services, where she led transformative people and culture initiatives. Her work focused on embedding mission-aligned practices and developing inclusive and trauma-informed systems to support employees in delivering critical services to vulnerable communities.

Earlier, she held the position of Director of Human Resources at University Prep Schools, where she supported educational professionals across Detroit. Her strategic HR leadership contributed to the school system’s efforts to build a strong, student-centered culture. She also served for over two decades as Chief Human Resources Officer at COTS (Creating Opportunities To Succeed), where she played a pivotal role in shaping HR strategies for one of the city’s leading non-profits focused on homelessness and poverty.
In addition to her executive roles, Johnson-Maples has actively contributed to the non-profit HR ecosystem, including serving as President of COPA (Coalition of Personnel Administrators) and holding board positions at several community organizations.
About Detroit PAL
Detroit PAL (Police Athletic League) is a non-profit organization that works in partnership with the Detroit Police Department and community volunteers to help youth find their greatness. Serving over 13,000 young participants with the support of 1,700+ certified volunteer coaches and mentors, Detroit PAL is committed to building kids of character, promoting healthy choices, instilling civic responsibility, and strengthening relationships between youth and law enforcement.
Read Also : Entering 2025, TA Leaders’ Success Built on More than Just Hiring, Says The Josh Bersin Company
People Analytics Teams Still Struggle to Deliver Business Impact, Warns The Josh Bersin Company
ESG and Women’s Leadership: Driving Sustainability and Inclusion
Learning and Development Trends for 2025: Shaping the Future of Workplace Learning