Grace joined College Possible in 2021, coming from a background in college access and non-profit operations. After graduating from Duke University with a B.A. in Public Policy and Education, Grace served as an AmeriCorps member with the Duke College Advising Corps for two years. After her work as a College Advisor in a rural North Carolina high school, Grace moved back to Minnesota to pursue a Master of Public Health in Community Health Promotion from the University of Minnesota: Twin Cities. During her Master's program, Grace worked as a consultant for various non-profit and educational organizations, including Girls on the Run and Special Olympics, where she focused on event planning, research, and development. Outside of work, Grace enjoys spending time with her pets and partner, staying active, cooking, and cultivating her ideal vintage wardrobe.

Coraima is a recent Minnesotan originally from Chicago, Illinois. She has a BA in Sociology and Social and Criminal Justice from Coe College. As a College Possible student alumnus, she decided to enroll in a term of service as an AmeriCorps coach to give back to the organization that supported her throughout college. As her term of service came to an end, she realized how much she loved working with students and was thrilled to be able to join College Possible in a full-time capacity. She looks forward to working with college students and familiarizing herself with more higher education institutions. In her free time Coraima enjoys kickboxing, strength training, and visiting local coffee shops.

Isabella Cook is a proud 2nd generation Trinidadian-American who has always advocated for the powers of education and the necessity of equity work. Growing up in a multi-racial household and family, Isabella hoped to see her different identities and cultures be represented in her learning. However, she quickly realized that this type of learning was not included in typical K-12 education.

Deeply connecting to the ethnic studies courses she was able to take while in college, Isabella sought to expand access to these community-centered classes and materials in K-12 and higher education. After receiving her B.A. in english at Gustavus Adolphus College ('22), Isabella began work with a local nonprofit as a youth program organizer, where she got to work directly with high school and college students, providing education support and services, as well as leading legislative advocacy to pass education policy. Through this work, she helped to pass the 2023 Ethnic Studies Legislation and Standards.

Isabella is very proud of her commitment to education equity and is excited to continue leading this work as a flagship program coordinator with the College Possible Minnesota team!

James is a Senior Program Manager on the College Access Team for College Possible Minnesota, working with a specific focus on providing programming for seniors in high school. Prior to joining College Possible, James held several roles in primary, secondary, and higher education. Beginning as a classroom teacher, James transitioned to an assistant principal role before entering the realm of higher education as an academic advisor and, later, a director of a "one-stop-shop" for all things financial aid, registration, and general student support. James holds an M.S. in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and a B.S. in Secondary Education with an emphasis in History and Social Studies from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Nick joined College Possible in 2018 as a Program Coordinator and currently serves as a Senior Manager for the high school Access program. His role includes overseeing a variety of work for our in-person, Flagship programming model, including test prep and student recruitment.

In addition to college access, Nick has a background in higher education and student affairs. He received a M.A. in Leadership in Student Affairs from the University of St. Thomas and has experience in campus programming and career development. As a first-generation college graduate, he recognizes the importance of a holistic approach to student support and advising and aims to bring that to college access work.

Allison was born and raised in Oakdale, Minnesota, and attended Minnesota State University, Mankato where she got two bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and law enforcement. Allison started at College Possible in 2022 as an AmeriCorps member serving for the College Success team. She is passionate in driving students to success, empowering students to grow and building community in the Saint Paul office. Outside of work, Allison often spends time with her two adorable nephews, cheering on the many Minnesota sports teams with friends or customizing shoes

Gao Shee is a first-generation college student from St. Paul, Minnesota. She joined College Possible as a student in high school and served two years as an AmeriCorps member 2022-2024. Most of her work experience included working with marginalized youth and closing the education gap.

She graduated from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities with a B.S. in Family Social Science, where she studied family dynamics and systems. Through her undergraduate career, she grew her passion of support and empowering youth in education systems.

Outside of work, Gao Shee likes to watch Korean dramas, Disney shows, Law and Order; Special Victims Unit, travel, and go to the gym.

Alyssa came to College Possible in 2023 after working at a small foundation working to raise funds for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the Twin Cities. She believes that everyone should have access to services and support to ensure that communities can thrive. She graduated from Saint Olaf College and currently lives in South Minneapolis, where she can be found gardening, learning how to sew, and playing with her dog.

Sophie has been passionate about education for several years, focusing her undergraduate work at Hamline University on education policy. After graduating from Hamline in December 2018, she joined College Possible as an AmeriCorps member serving Highland Park and Johnson High School. Since her time as an AmeriCorps member, she has continued her work in college access and success programs by working with TRIO Student Support Services for two years. Coming back to College Possible, Sophie is excited to continue this work and support new AmeriCorps members as they begin their own journeys.

Outside of work, Sophie is a graduate student studying Student Affairs Administration at the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse and plans to graduate in May 2023. She loves her two cats, Guts and Parsnips, and spends most of her time exploring the Twin Cities.

Julia was born and raised in the Twin Cities and has always held a deep affinity for social justice and education equity. She came to College Possible in February 2018 after graduating from the University of Sheffield with her Master's in Public Policy. She served two terms of service as a College Coach, before joining the College Possible Leadership Team. Julia loves being on the Program Team and having opportunities to learn more about how to support students and make an impact on their college journey.

Megan attended Saint Catherine University, earning a Bachelor’s in Psychology, and continued onto Oregon State University, earning a Master of Education in College Student Services Administration.  Megan has worked with AmeriCorps as a Campus Corps Team Leader at Montana State University (MSU). She holds years of experience in higher education, most recently with the TRIO/SSS office at the community college campus of MSU-Billings.  In her free time, Megan enjoys baking, reading, learning various types of fiber arts, and exploring the outdoors with her partner and their 80-pound lapdog, Bleu.

A native of the Twin Cities area, Brendan has always had a passion for higher education equity. Brendan graduated from Saint John's University in 2019 with a degree in Economics and Political Science and received a Master's in Advocacy and Political Leadership from Metropolitan State University in 2022. Brendan served as an AmeriCorps Volunteer with College Possible from 2019-2021 at Minneapolis Roosevelt High School, Edina High School, and Burnsville High School. Brendan has served as a Program Coordinator since July 2022. Outside of work, Brendan coaches both tennis and Speech & Debate in his free time.

As a first-generation college student, Kristine navigated her undergraduate years largely on her own, switching majors three times. Despite the challenges, these experiences were transformative, uncovering her passions and strengths. Aware of the barriers minority and first-generation students encounter in higher education, she's committed to advocating for equity. Her mission is to mentor and empower the next generation, promoting reflection and nurturing personal growth and self-discovery throughout their college journey.

Lindsay joined College Possible in 2018 after starting their career at two other youth-development nonprofits and a year of service as an AmeriCorps member with New Sector Alliance. Through their work, Lindsay saw the value and influence of programs focused on youth education and social-emotional learning and the impact these programs can have on students from underserved and under-resourced communities. This influenced their commitment to social justice and educational equity. Lindsay is also a Master of Social Work student at Augsburg University. Lindsay works towards a future where students know they belong in higher education and their identities and experiences will be valued and celebrated.

Maisy grew up in Minneapolis and attended St. Olaf College where she majored in French, Management and Media Studies. After graduating, she worked at Ameriprise Financial as a Regional Sales Manager, a Financial Advisor and a Marketing Manager. Through her work, she's gained a passion surrounding educational and financial equity in higher education.

Megan joined College Possible in early 2024. She started her work within the non-profit sector serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA at an intergenerational literacy program in Boston, Massachusetts. Through her service, she developed a deep commitment to educational equity and a passion for connecting institutional resources with organizations providing critical services within communities. Megan earned a B.A. at the University of Michigan and a Masters in Nonprofit Management at DePaul University. She brings more than a decade of experience in grants management, donor stewardship, and institutional engagement to her role as Director of Institutional Engagement. When not working, Megan enjoys hiking with her very energetic dog, exploring the Twin Cities with her two children, and cooking with friends and family.

mmattson@collegepossible.org

Rebecca joined College Possible Minnesota in 2022 and brings more than 15 years of experience serving non-profit organizations like the American Craft Council, Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, and One Voice Mixed Chorus. She started her nonprofit career in operations and then moved to marketing and communications, fund development, and special events.

Rebecca is also a volunteer board member for the Hennepin History Museum and her townhouse association. A graduate of Grinnell College with a B.A. in Anthropology, she also holds an M.A. in Arts and Cultural Management from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Rebecca is an avid reader, cat mom, arts and culture supporter, travel fanatic, and food connoisseur.

RMerrill@CollegePossible.org

Sabrina is a nonprofit professional with a background in student support for both K-12 and undergraduate populations. After serving with College Possible MN as a College Coach, she has now transitioned to working with the site’s student events team.

McKenzie is the first person in her family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. From a young age, her parents emphasized the importance of a college education and being a lifelong learner. As the first in her family to attend a four-year university, McKenzie understands the unique process of navigating college, from application to graduation.

A proud 2022 graduate from St. Catherine University, McKenzie is passionate about supporting fellow first-generation students on the path to achieving their academic and career dreams. She is enthusiastic about programs such as College Possible, that help narrow the equity gap in higher education and work to make college accessible for all learners.

McKenzie served as a college success coach for two years and is so excited to join the College Possible team as an advising specialist. She says, “it takes people to make the dream work!” and sees her work as a continuation of the teachers, mentors and supporters who helped make college possible for her.

Moses love art, sports, and exploration. When he is not working, he prefers to spend time doing personal projects or listening to music.

Originally from North Dakota, Riley moved to the Twin Cities area in the fall of 2021 after graduating with a B.A. in Anthropology and French from the University of North Dakota. She served as an AmeriCorps member with College Possible from 2021-2023 at Columbia Heights High School and Como Park High School. Shortly after completing her two years of service, she returned to College Possible as a High School Program Coordinator. In her new role, she is most excited about supporting coaches as they support our incredible College Possible students!

Tim graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 2014. He worked in higher education for three years in both the office of Housing and Resident Life and Office of Admissions. Tim joined College Possible in 2020. Outside of work, he enjoys hanging out with friends and family, road trips with his dog Murphy, and painting and drawing.

Thao joined College Possible in 2021 with more than five years of working in nonprofit and supporting students to gain access to higher education. Being a first-generation student from a low-income background, she experienced many challenges in accessing and completing college. After completing her bachelor's degree at St. Catherine University, she knew she wanted to continue providing support and resources to students with similar experiences. Thao is passionate about equity in education and believes all students should have equal access to higher education regardless of their background. Outside of College Possible, Thao enjoys spending time with her family, finding new boba places, reading, and digital planning.

Alexander Sánchez Rodríguez (Any/All) is a seasoned professional with expertise in leadership, teaching, and community service. His diverse roles at The Salvation Army, from case worker and tutor to manager, have sharpened his skills in nonprofit administration, finance management, and pastoral care. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor's in High School English Education from the University of Puerto Rico and a Bachelor's in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College, he is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Religion and Theology at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Sánchez excels in fast-paced environments and is recognized for his problem-solving abilities, reliability, and integrity.

Molly grew up in Altadena, CA and attended Carleton College where she majored in American Studies and minored in Education Studies; she now calls the Twin Cities home. Molly joined College Possible in 2023 as a Flagship Access Coach at Kennedy High School. As a high school coach she's been able to work in person with students, helping them navigate the college application process. Her favorite thing to help students determining their fit factors as well as helping students write their personal essays. Molly is excited to be transitioning over to the college success side and helping students transition and grow throughout the college process.

Prior to College Possible Molly worked as a Educational Associate for Carleton College's Director of the Arts, getting to lead student workers with the technical upkeep and set building for the Theater and Dance Department. Molly has also worked as an assistant coach for Flintridge Prep's high school girls cross country team and will be coaching ultimate frisbee with Minnesota Superiors U20 Open team. This past fall Molly completed the Mayo Clinic's Health and Wellness Coach Training and is working to complete her certification.

In her free time Molly loves playing ultimate frisbee, swing dancing, and cooking.

Shannon was born and raised in the Twin Cities. She graduated from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in the spring of 2020 with a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology and is pursuing a Master's of Arts in Higher Education, also at the University of Minnesota. Her educational and career goals are largely driven by her identities as an Asian-American woman and first-generation student; Shannon hopes to redefine and reconstruct the journey to and through college into a more equitable experience, especially for those who hold similar, underrepresented and marginalized identities.

Shannon was a student in the College Possible program through high school and college. After graduating from university, she served as a college success coach for two years, and then came back as a Navigate program coordinator for the college access team.

Originally from Virginia, BG went to college in Minnesota and then joined Teach for America, working as a kindergarten through eighth-grade Spanish teacher in Gary, Indiana. Teaching in Gary was her first introduction to the world of college access and success. BG moved to Boston to serve as one of two founding college counselors at KIPP Academy Lynn Collegiate (KALC) in Lynn, Massachusetts. She went on to become the Director of College Counseling while supporting the KALC's first two graduating classes. In 2016, BG moved to London to pursue US admissions counseling abroad. BG and her family moved back to Minnesota in 2018. Prior to joining College Possible, BG served as the Director of College and Career Counseling at Venture Academy, a single-site charter school in Minneapolis. Working at Venture for four and a half years, BG was able to share her enthusiasm for college access and success with Venture’s founding graduates. BG received her B.A. in Latin American Studies from Carleton College and her M.A. in Higher Education from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.

BTucker@CollegePossible.org

Mai joins College Possible with over five years of experience in K-12 education. She is an M.A. Teaching candidate at Saint Mary’s University, holds a B.A. in Social Welfare, and a certificate in Education & Educational Services from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mai believes every student can achieve their academic and personal goals with the right support.

As a low-income, first-generation college student, Mai experienced the varying impacts educational systems can have on one’s academic career. Therefore, she is passionate about analyzing and developing organizational structures to ensure they are accessible to students and families. Outside of work, Mai enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring the North Shore of Minnesota, and finding the best boba in Minnesota.

Nancy is a first-generation college graduate who earned her bachelor's degree at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. As an alumni of pre-college programs, EIP and Upward Bound, she saw the value that these programs can have on first-generation students from low-income backgrounds. She joined College Possible in June 2022 as a College Program Coordinator. Outside of College Possible, Nancy enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, watching movies, and photography.

Pahoua grew up in North Minneapolis and first joined College Possible as a student in 2010.  As a first-generation college student, she experienced first-hand the importance and positive impact of College Possible's mission and work. With the continuous support of her amazing coaches, she graduated with her bachelor's degree at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in Communication Studies. She was the first in her family to earn a bachelor's degree and learn the generational impact it can make. She supported her younger sister get into college and now working with her brother, who is a high school senior, explore the option of higher education.

Stella joined College Possible in the fall of 2019 with a passion for supporting AmeriCorps members and students. She grew up in the Twin Cities and is a first-generation college graduate. She attended Hamline University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Public Health.  Stella brings experience working in direct service, housing, and volunteer management. Prior to College Possible, she spent two years as a case manager with the International Institute of Minnesota, where she secured housing and set up homes for newly arrived refugee families.

Outside of College Possible, Stella enjoys traveling, scrapbooking, cleaning & organizing.

A long-time "Minnesconsinite," Spencer grew up around Hudson / River Falls, WI, spent some years in Madison, WI, and has now settled down in the Twin Cities area. He received his bachelor's degree in History from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 2016. During his time at UW, his various jobs in Residence Life led him to the world of student affairs, and he obtained a master's degree in Student Affairs Administration from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. After working in TRIO Student Support Services and Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging during his graduate program, he joined College Possible in 2021. He believes every student has a story worth telling and wants to do whatever he can to help bring those stories to life.

Outside of his work with College Possible, Spencer spends his time getting lost in stories of all kinds, playing games with his friends, and exploring the outdoors with his family.

Meet Gao Nou Xiong. She is a first-generation college student who achieved a key milestone by completing her bachelor's degree at St. Cloud State University. Gao Nou joined College Possible as a college success coach in 2023 and transitioned to an advising specialist after her year of service. In this role, she is dedicated to supporting marginalized students in higher education.

Obtaining her bachelor's degree was a significant milestone in Gao Nou's life, given that her parents came to the U.S. as immigrants. This accomplishment reflects her determination and resilience as a first-generation college student and fuels her dedication to helping students from underrepresented backgrounds navigate their educational journeys.

Gao Nou's commitment to diversity and inclusion drives her work in mentoring and guiding students toward academic success. She strives to create an inclusive and equitable environment where all students feel supported and valued. With a passion for empowering underrepresented communities, Gao Nou uses her skills and experience to foster positive change.

Outside of her professional life, Gao Nou enjoys spending time with family, playing volleyball, binge watching TV shows, anime, and Korean drama, and hiking or walking along scenic routes.

Pétra Noble currently serves as the Senior Vice President of HR Analytics, Workforce Planning and Data Governance at USBank. She joined USBank after working for Ecolab in various leadership roles which included leading strategic growth programs, operational excellence, and advanced data/analytic strategy. Prior to joining Ecolab, Noble worked as an internal consultant for Allianz SE/Reinsurance based in Munich, Germany; the Spatial Statistical Director at the University of Minnesota’s Population Center; and a Statistician for the US Census Bureau. She has worked, volunteered and served on committees within numerous organizations such as the Coalition for Low Income Community Development, US Peace Corps, Volunteer in Service to America (later named AmeriCorps), and Centro Operacional de Vivienda y Poblamiento (COPEV).

Noble holds a BA from the College of St. Benedict, MS degree from the University of Iowa, MBA from U of MN’s Carlson School of Business, and an Advanced Certification from the Harvard Business Analytics Program. She lives in Minneapolis with her partner Scott Schueller, children Blaise and Elly, and one unusually large dog named ‘Tinkerbell’. Originally from Northern Minnesota’s Iron Range, Noble still enjoys almost every outdoor activity, accordion music, and a well rolled ‘Povitica’ – a sweet, Croatian walnut bread.

Holly Amaya is a strategic and inclusive leader with 20+ years of experience in K-12 education. Holly is currently the Managing Director at CharterSource, a nonprofit that provides scaffolded support and development in governance, leadership, and operations for school improvement. She is an experienced school administrator and licensed school counselor. Holly’s areas of interest and expertise include college & career readiness, educational innovation, strategic planning, organizational development, and creating systems of accountability.

Holly has a Master of Arts degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota and has since completed numerous postgraduate courses and certificates as a continual learner. Holly enjoys creating stained glass projects, doing yoga, hiking, and being at home in St. Paul with her partner, two children, and a variety of pets.

Dave Anderson currently serves as the senior vice president of portfolio management at Medtronic, delivering high-quality, evidence based, innovative solutions that improve patient lives. As president of the Neuromodulation Operating Unit at Medtronic, he led a $2 billion business treating pain, movement disorders and epilepsy and new therapies in research. He previously led the Enabling Technologies business for Medtronic and has held leadership roles in general management, M&A, R&D, operations, and quality for multiple innovative companies in healthcare. His prior board work includes board chair for Trinity Classical Academy, California Life Sciences, Love SCV, industry advisory board for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and board observer for Proteus Biomedical. His passion for serving the community centers on addressing barriers to growth including helping scholars rise, entrepreneurs innovate and the under-resourced be well equipped to live life to the fullest.

He holds a BS in manufacturing systems engineering from Kettering University, an MBA from Pepperdine and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.

Douachee Lee is the Marketing Director at Augsburg University, where she supports marketing efforts for Augsburg and Luther Seminary. In her position, Douachee provides leadership to the marketing team and spends time building relationships throughout the institutions and community in order to support institutional goals.

Prior to her work at Augsburg, she has spent years building a well-rounded work experience, working with nonprofit and for-profit organizations - working with organizations like Minnesota Reading and Math Corps, Intricon Corporation, and the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota.

Douachee has a deep connection with College Possible, as a College Possible student, graduating from Patrick Henry High School. Additionally, she served as an AmeriCorps member with College Possible from 2009-2010 as a College Coach. Since her high school graduation, Douachee has been an advocate for closing the achievement gap and college access and is a strong supporter of College Possible.

She graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2009 with a B.S.B in Marketing, from the Carlson School of Management, and a B.A. in Strategic Communications, from the College of Liberal Arts’ School of Journalism.

James is the owner and founder of the Hyland Lake Group in Edina, a personal financial planning and wealth management services firm. He is a Certified Financial Planner® Practitioner and has served clients for over 20 years. He is honored and excited to serve and support College Possible Minnesota’s Advisory Board in its mission to grow and to improve the lives of students.

Prior to joining College Possible, he has served as a commissioner on the CFP Board of Standard’s 12-Member Disciplinary & Ethics Commission, a classroom presenter with Best Prep Minnesota, a youth club soccer coach, and a parent volunteer and Merit Badge Counselor with the Boy Scouts of America.

James received a B.L.A of Landscape Architecture from Texas Tech University and holds the Chartered Financial Consultant® and Chartered Special Needs Consultant® designations from the American College of Financial Services.

James and his wife Laura live in Chaska with their blended family of three children and their two rescue pups. Their oldest son is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, and their daughter currently attends the University of Minnesota. Their youngest son attends the University of Kansas.

Shannon Cron (she/her) works as an Associate Dean of Admissions at St. Olaf College. In this role, she counsels prospective students and their families through the admissions and financial aid process. She emphasizes demystifying these processes, promoting a student-centric college search, and developing personalized connections with students. Her other responsibilities include facilitating ongoing training and professional development for Admissions staff, developing information session content for the campus visit program, and leading St. Olaf's partnerships with Twin Cities college access organizations (including College Possible!).

In addition to her work at St. Olaf, Shannon recently completed her masters' degree in Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development (with an emphasis in Higher Education) at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Her research focuses on students' disclosures of trauma in the college application process and what the college admission professionals' role is in this growing phenomenon.

Shannon also serves on the Board of Directors for Colleges that Change Lives and is a member of NACAC, MNACC, MACAC, and RMACAC.

Earlier in her career and education, she served as an AmeriCorps member with College Possible, working as a High School Coach at Coon Rapids High School from 2015-2017. She graduated from St. Olaf College in 2015 with a degree in theatre. She's been an Author Fellow at Martha's Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing Summer Writing Workshop and has directed collaboratively-created theater productions centered around social issues.

Sander Glick is the co-founder and executive vice president of SLS Consulting, Inc., a preeminent Washington, DC-based consulting firm on issues related to the economics and environmental impact of mailing and shipping.

Growing up as the child of a university administrator, broadening access to a quality college education has always been a priority in Mr. Glick’s volunteer work and philanthropy. Outside of serving on College Possible Minnesota’s Advisory Board, Mr. Glick serves as the chair of Carleton College’s Alumni Annual Fund board and the AAF’s liaison to Carleton’s Board of Trustees.

Mr. Glick holds a B.A. in Physics from Carleton College and an M.P.A. in Public Administration from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

Elle Grothaus holds dual roles as Global Talent Leader for corporate functions and Global Human Resources Business Partner for Commercial Excellence at Cargill, Inc.  She has more than 20 years of HR leadership experience across business partner, talent management, organization development, and global inclusion and diversity.  She works with and coaches leaders in solving critical talent challenges required to drive business performance.

Prior to joining Cargill, Elle thoroughly loved her seven years as a college admissions counselor and is excited to serve and support College Possible.  Elle received a bachelor’s degree from Concordia College - Moorhead and a master's degree from the University of Notre Dame.  She and her husband, Daren, have a daughter, Loren, and son, Leo.

Mark is an established non-profit executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience in all fundraising activities with demonstrated success in creating high impact philanthropy with high-net-worth benefactors through guiding principles in curiosity and collaboration. After a decade leading fundraising and advancement activities at the University of Minnesota and University of St. Thomas he joined Bethel University in September of 2023 to lead the Office of Advancement, which oversees fundraising, alumni relations and the Bethel Foundation. While at St. Thomas, Mark served as the chief development officer for a team of development professionals in two colleges - the Morrison Family College of Health and the Opus College of Business. He oversaw more than $20 million raised in under five years and was working with generous benefactors on transformational gifts of more than $100 million at the time of his transition to Bethel.

Mark has seen first-hand the change that a college degree can make for one individual, their family and the community and is driven to help lead an organization seeking to reverse the opportunity gap in Minnesota. With a focus on leveraging his fundraising acumen, management experiences, and operational excellence, he seeks to make a tangible impact on the community served by College Possible Minnesota. His prior board experience includes Hope Community Church in Minneapolis and Hope for the Mourning, a nonprofit providing resources to parents who have lost a child.

Mark holds a BA in History from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and has pursued continuous learning and professional development obtaining the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy certification in 2009.

Jill Manske is Professor Emerita at the University of St. Thomas. She has over thirty years of teaching and administrative experience in higher education.

Her roles at St. Thomas have included chair of the Department of Health and Exercise Science, associate chair of the Department of Biology, Director of Women's Studies, and Director of Special Projects and Strategic Initiatives for the Office of the Provost.

In 2015, Jill was appointed by President Julie Sullivan to develop and coordinate a proposal to establish the Dougherty Family College at St. Thomas. The Dougherty Family College initiative was successful. In 2017 the DFC opened with a mission to provide a rigorous, affordable, dynamic two-year college experience for students who face some or more of the many barriers to accessing and succeeding in higher education.

Outside of St. Thomas, Jill has served as a visiting research fellow at the Center for Infectious Disease and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota, an American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) Scientific Thinking and Integrative Reasoning Skills (STIRS) Scholar, a two-time recipient of National Science Foundation grants to fund laboratory instruction, a three-year summer fellow at the Elon College Center for Engaged Learning, as well as chair of the Special Education Advisory Council for St. Paul Public Schools.

She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in both scientific and higher education journals. Many focus on teaching and learning, with emphasis on access to research and hands-on learning as high-impact learning practices.

Jill received a bachelor's degree from the College of St. Catherine, a master's degree from Southern Illinois University, a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota, and a master's degree in public health from the University of Minnesota.

She is passionate about supporting students to and through higher education and is excited to bring her insights and experience in higher education to the mission of College Possible.

Jorge has spent the last decade leading and transforming postsecondary pathway access and career development programs across the US through an equity driven and culturally responsive lens, development, and strategic and data-driven planning and management at organizations like KIPP Massachusetts & NYC, College Track, the Wonderful Company, the KIPP Foundation, and currently the Sr. Director of Partnership Implementation at LEE (Leadership for Educational Equity).

As a leader, Jorge has focused much of his work on creating a transformational yet scalable impact for BIPOC students, leaders, and communities. His identity and experiences have allowed him to continue coaching and supporting leaders across nationally in building student-centered and career focused, and inclusive postsecondary strategies, frameworks, and initiatives that affirm students’ and staff's identities and lived experiences while continuing to create innovative frameworks that push for more integrated career pathways and postsecondary persistence strategies across the nation.

Jorge has led professional development around college and career access, culturally responsive counseling, and strategic planning for hundreds of college counselors and school leaders. He currently serves on the College Board’s National College Admission and Counseling Committee.

Hailing from a small town in Michoacan, Mexico, and raised in the rural landscape of Northern California, Jorge holds a bachelor’s degree in Chicano/a studies from the University of California- Los Angeles and a master’s degree in Applied Psychology from New York University.

Cynthia has than 30 years of experience with financial services, insurance domain, business operations, internal audit, DEI, issue resolution, and relationship management and is known for her results-oriented approach. She possess a unique leadership style, which includes an innate ability to develop rapport and engagement that delivers results. Her well-rounded personality and set of experiences make it possible for her to relate to almost anyone. She brings her whole self to help retool and re-fit the narrative surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in company efforts for all business metrics and other communities she serves in.

Cynthia has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from the University of Minnesota.