By 2036, 70% of Texas jobs will need a postsecondary credential—but only 56% of Bexar County’s Class of 2023 enrolled after graduation. Future Ready Bexar County is closing the gap with equitable advising and collaboration. Learn more: sanantonioreport.org/guiding-bexar-…

Honored to host senior leaders from Cedar Hill ISD, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, DeSoto ISD, Grand Prairie ISD, Irving ISD, Lancaster ISD, Mesquite ISD, Richardson ISD and Uplift Education for Commit to Outcomes, featuring insights (and jokes) from former Dallas ISD Supt. Michael Hinojosa.

For many people returning from incarceration, finding stable work can be the difference between opportunity and recidivism. Center for Employment Opportunities provides immediate paid work, coaching, and skills-building to help participants succeed. prnewswire.com/news-releases/…

Which strategy would make the biggest difference in improving economic mobility for rural communities?

MacKenzie Scott’s $70 million donation to UNCF is one of her largest ever — and it’s transformational. It means more scholarships, stronger campuses, and long-term support for generations of HBCU students. bluemeridian.org/media/mackenzi…

CSI hosted the panel “America’s Got Talent – How Record Sealing Became a Workforce Imperative” at CBCF Inc. #CBCFALC54! Grateful to our panelists and moderator for their expertise in advancing second chances. We're energized + ready to keep pushing forward!

What do you think is the most important next step to expand skills-first hiring?

Can’t make it to the LEARN Conference? We’ve got you covered: bit.ly/4nYubpx With our Virtual Experience, you can join the excitement from anywhere! Stream our Keynote and main Plenary sessions live, including a powerful address from Maryland Governor Wes Moore.

Systems change is measurable. StriveTogether is reaching over 14 million youth—from early learning to college completion. #CradleToCareer Learn more about their work: strivetogether.org

.@CodePath’s rigorous, industry-aligned curriculum helps students from underserved backgrounds break into tech and prepares learners for high-growth careers—while also building a more inclusive future for the field. We’re proud to support their work!

In your experience, what builds the strongest trust between nonprofits and funders?

Thriving neighborhoods are built deliberately with residents at the center. Purpose Built Communities equips local leaders to design cradle‑to‑career pathways that elevate community voice—connecting quality housing, strong schools, & wraparound supports so every child can thrive.

Scaling impact takes more than a bold vision. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

PRI President and CEO Dreama Gentry shares her journey from Appalachian roots to building a rural movement powered by communities, partnerships, and leaders focused on giving every rural youth a real path to thrive. Read more: nationswell.com/impact-next-an…

For generations, HBCUs have nurtured scholars, cultivated leaders, and strengthened communities. At Blue Meridian, we’re honored to support institutions like these—listening, learning, and offering flexible, long‑term resources in service of their goals. bluemeridian.org/media/why-hbcu…

This month, #AscendiumEP team members will join peers at #EdFunders25 and #NRWC2025. #EdFunders25 on Oct. 21: Don’s miss Kirstin Yeado and representatives from Lead for America and Vermont Youth Conservation Corps discussing workforce training through national service programs

Millions depend on SNAP and Medicaid, but outdated systems create delays and missed opportunities. Code for America is changing that—using tech and human-centered design to help people access benefits in minutes, not months. Learn more: codeforamerica.org

.The Clean Slate Initiative is helping states automate record clearance, unlocking jobs, housing, and stability for millions. It's an honor to support their work in reshaping second chances at scale. cleanslateinitiative.org

Philanthropy can unlock outsized impact when capital is catalytic. From your seat in the sector, where should funders focus now?

.Youth Villages shows how adaptability, evidence-based models, and philanthropic investment can drive better outcomes for youth and families at scale. Learn more about how this organization grew from its roots in Tennessee to 29 states nationwide: bluemeridian.org/media/how-yout…