Wallin and UpTurnships Join ForcesWe are pleased to share an exciting development for the higher education and career development community in Minnesota. On July 1, 2023, UpTurnships will officially become part of Wallin Education Partners. This strategic initiative will accelerate the reach and impact of both organizations, ensuring that more young people have access to transformative education and career opportunities. By combining forces, Wallin Education Partners and UpTurnships will offer a comprehensive suite of programs to support students at every stage of their college and career journeys. We are looking forward to all the future brings in this new phase for both organizations as we continue to grow our reach and expand on our unparalleled outcomes. Wallin Education Partners has long been dedicated to breaking down barriers to higher education and providing comprehensive support to students as they pursue their academic and career goals. “In addition to scholarships and our highly effective wrap-around support, Wallin has significantly increased our college-to-career program. Bringing UpTurnships into Wallin to further enhance scholar support will accelerate the pace at which we can provide life-changing, career experiences for our expanding group of Wallin scholars” stated Susan Basil King, President/CEO of Wallin. UpTurnships is an equity-minded organization that uplifts and empowers student voices through culturally responsive work readiness training and coaching while working with employers efforts to be culturally inclusive and equitable. UpTurnship’s 360-degree approach ensures a stronger and more sustainable workforce. By joining the Wallin organization, UpTurnships will increase its reach and bring its innovative program to more students at a time when the market needs diverse talent more than ever. La Tasha Shevlin, Executive Director of UpTurnships, will join the senior team at Wallin and work closely with Geoff Wilson, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives, to spearhead the integration of the new combined program. Liwanag Ojala, Chief Transformation Officer of American Public Media Group and the board chair of UpTurnships, will join the Wallin board of trustees. “This is an exciting next chapter for both organizations. UpTurnships has served hundreds of scholars in our 10-year history and we are grateful to our donors, volunteers and partners who made our work possible. I look forward to an exciting future for our combined college to career program, to serve even more students.” Posted on June 16, 2023
St. Paul, MN – Wallin Education Partners surprised 30 students from four high schools with the news that they had been awarded a Wallin Scholarship!
Today, Wallin is announcing its largest class ever, with 361 four-year scholars from 70+ high schools and over $8 million in support. Each scholar will receive up to $16,000 over four years, advising, and access to support. The surprises took place in Blaine High School, Johnson High School, Owatonna High School, and Richfield High School. 88% of this year’s class are students of color, 74% are first-generation, and 100% have demonstrated financial need. “Each student motivates and inspires us. Our scholars are creating a more equitable Minnesota, one that we desire and that they deserve,” said Susan Basil King, EdD, President & CEO of Wallin Education Partners. To see the full surprise video or to meet our newest Wallin Scholars, please visit www.wallinscholars.org. Dear Friends and Colleagues,
It is with gratitude for the opportunity to lead that I am announcing my departure from Wallin Education Partners this fall. I joined Wallin in the summer of 2013 and over the past decade I have been privileged to lead a wonderful organization through a time of challenge and opportunity. Our community of scholars, trustees, donors, and staff came together to create opportunities for students from low-income backgrounds to succeed in college. This has been an amazing and rewarding experience for all of us. My own efforts have been enhanced by the talent that surrounds me and I am grateful to many who helped me be an effective leader. The need for our program that focuses on student success and equity in our community has never been more important, and Wallin Education Partners is ready to expand its impact. We are excited about our goal to double the number of students we serve and create a truly exceptional experience that each and every scholar deserves. The board of trustees has hired the firm of Cohen Taylor to assist in the search for the next leader for Wallin. The process will begin this month and I am confident that Wallin Education Partners future is very, very bright. Finally, thank you for your support, advocacy and friendship – I have wonderful memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. Susan Basil King, EdD President & CEO “As I reflect on Susan’s leadership, we are incredibly grateful for what she has achieved. Susan’s steady and innovative leadership during the past ten years has positioned Wallin for even greater success in the future. In 2013 Wallin awarded scholarships to 117 students, this year we will award scholarships to over 515. The continued graduation rates of four-year scholars (90%) make Wallin one of the most effective scholarships in the country. Collaborating with key donors, Susan directed the expansion of programs in Austin, Granite Falls, and Owatonna. She created new pathways to meet the needs of students and employers including community college students, career specific scholarships in health care and construction, and a new initiative to create a pipeline for students attending HBCUs. On behalf of our Wallin trustees, staff and our entire community, thank you, Susan for your remarkable leadership, and the tremendous, long-lasting impact you have had on our community.” Katie Lawler Chair, Board of Trustee |