When I returned to Pittsburgh early in my career, my mother kept telling me about this nonprofit that Dr. Linda Croushore founded. She told me about the amazing work they were doing with schools in the Mon Valley and encouraged me to reach out to see if there might be an opportunity for me to apply my skills as a grant writer. Fortunately for me, Linda saw something in me and created a position. I wrote grants and took a deep dive into education policy and youth career development.
Eventually, I left for new experiences but I missed the Consortium – the people and the difference they made in kids’ lives. Years later, I ran into Linda and we began talking about how the Consortium’s work had evolved. Fortunately for me, she was willing to take me back and I am grateful to be leading this organization as we celebrate 40 years.
I’ve worked for some incredible organizations, but there is something special about the Consortium. From when I first started in 2000 and worked with those who helped launch this organization to the amazing colleagues I have the privilege of working with today – staff and board members – I am extremely grateful and amazed at what has been accomplished. I am also thankful for the partners who assist us in doing this work – employers, educators, community leaders, and more. We could not do this without them (you), and that list is huge. It’s exciting to be part of something that makes a difference in the lives of educators and students. Through our work and a myriad of partnerships, we are able to help thousands of young people explore, plan, and prepare for their futures; something that benefits students and their families while also helping to build SWPA’s future workforce.
I’m so proud of what the Consortium has contributed to this region. Starting with just one school district, we’ve come a long way over these first 40 years. With your help, we have built a positive, enduring legacy that creates opportunities for thousands of educators and students, and ripple effects that impact countless more lives. I can’t wait to see what happens over the next forty years.
