
EducationEntrepreneurship & InnovationHealth & Wellness for Leaders
Dr. Sakina Quinnell Griggs: A Life of Service, Education, and Ministry

Dr. Sakina Quinnell Griggs, born on June 7, 1962, to Archbishop Dr. Eileen V. Martin and Quinnon L. Martin, has dedicated her life to serving children, families, and her community. Raised in a spiritually rich home, Dr. Griggs was deeply influenced by her mother and grandmother, who instilled in her a love for faith, education, and service. These values have guided her remarkable journey as an educator, nonprofit leader, and ordained minister.
Faith, Education, and Early Career
A graduate of Mumford High School in 1982, Dr. Griggs pursued higher education with an Associate’s Degree from Wayne County Community College (2006) and a degree from Word of Faith International Seminary (2002). Her career began in the mental health field, where she spent 11 years supporting children with ADD at the Children’s Home of Detroit Secure Unit. This experience ignited her passion for early childhood education, inspiring her to make an even greater impact.
Founder of Agape Kingdom Preschool Institute
In 1991, Dr. Griggs founded Agape Kingdom Preschool Institute, a premier early childhood education center that has become a cornerstone of her community. For over 33 years, she has served as its CEO, overseeing every aspect of operations. Her holistic approach emphasizes the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of children, tailoring programs to meet each child’s unique needs.
Dr. Griggs’s dedication has earned Agape Kingdom a stellar reputation, often resulting in a waitlist. Her achievements include certifications such as the Great Start Quality Certificate of Recognition and the Great Start Quality Certificate of Enhancement. Many former students now enroll their own children, a testament to the institute’s lasting impact.

Nonprofit and Community Service
In 2018, Dr. Griggs expanded her impact by founding a nonprofit organization aimed at combating homelessness among veterans, teen mothers, and low-income families. Her community service also includes volunteering at nursing homes, participating in feeding programs, and supporting children’s church ministries.
As an Elder at The Victory Church International in Westland, Michigan, she serves on the leadership board and oversees the Culinary and Beautification teams. Her ministry work reflects her unwavering commitment to fostering love, faith, and service in her community.
Recognition and Legacy
Dr. Griggs’s contributions have been widely recognized. In 2005, she was named Businesswoman of the Year by the NRCC’s Business Advisory Council and honored in Washington, D.C. Her educational accomplishments, including a Child Development Associate credential and numerous certifications, reflect her dedication to lifelong learning and excellence.
A Life Rooted in Faith and Family
A proud mother of four adult children and grandmother to twelve, Dr. Griggs emphasizes the importance of family in all aspects of her life. Her faith and love for community are the driving forces behind her work, making her a beacon of hope and leadership for generations.
Dr. Sakina Quinnell Griggs’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and unwavering service. Her impact spans education, ministry, and community outreach, inspiring countless individuals to embrace faith and purpose in their lives.
