About Dr. Keshan Gainey Chambliss
Lieutenant Colonel Keshan Chambliss was born in Jacksonville, Florida. She is the youngest of five children to Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Rosa Gainey. A graduate of Paxon School for Advanced Studies, she completed her studies with honors in June 1987, ranking in the top 8% of her class and earning recognition in Who’s Who Among High School Students. Dr. Chambliss matriculated at Florida State University, obtaining an Associate of Arts Degree and joining the Army National Guard. Following basic and advanced training, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts at the University of North Florida, subsequently attaining both master’s and doctoral degrees in 1998.
Her extensive military career includes appointment as a Direct Commission MSC Officer in The Florida Army National Guard under Major General Michael Calhoun. She later joined the Florida Air National Guard’s 125th Medical Group in May 2002 as Health Services Administrator, with a focus on the physical and mental wellness of airmen. In September 2003, Dr. Chambliss married, and in April 2004 welcomed Elijah Chambliss while actively serving in the Florida Air National Guard. Her professional history encompasses roles such as Case Manager, Behaviorist, Mental Health Counselor, Therapeutic Friend for emotionally disturbed children, and Support Coordinator, all reflecting her dedication to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Additionally, she serves as Inspector Technician for the Supervisor of Election Office, facilitating voter accessibility.
Dr. Chambliss has demonstrated exemplary commitment to community engagement. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she was elected National Panhellenic Representative and has participated actively in Links Inc. since May 2018, contributing across multiple committees to assist underserved populations. She was appointed TRUE Commissioner by the City Council President, chaired the advisory committee for two terms, and provided fiscal policy guidance to city leadership. Recent appointments include service on the Johnson YMCA Advisory Board and completion of Leadership Jacksonville (2024) and Communivercity (2025), further enhancing her leadership acumen.
After retiring from the military following a distinguished 33-year tenure, Dr. Chambliss now serves as an Air Force Instructor at Sandalwood High School, where she leads and mentors’ cadets. She is committed to continuing her service as the City Council representative for District #10.
