A Message from Our CEO

Dear Friends,

As 2020 comes to a close, I reflect on the unpredictable path it has set before us. When COVID-19 began to wreak havoc on the nation, I was navigating the logistics of virtual classes for my family and former school while also preparing for the role of CEO of Prep for Prep. While Prep’s incredible faculty, staff, and families rallied to pivot to a remote environment, none of us were immune to the disproportionate impact of a pandemic on already underresourced communities. Our families have lost parents, and breadwinners lost jobs when states shut down nonessential businesses. Violence against Black Americans continues to add to our collective trauma as yet another example of a long legacy of institutional racism in this country. During an already difficult time, our community also has had to grapple with one of the most crucial elections in U.S. history while still adjusting to new ways of work and life.

Yet this unpredictable year has also shone a light on why our mission of developing ethical and effective leaders for a diverse society matters more than ever. Our struggles have led to innovation, adaptability, and cohesion among our community. From staff outreach to provide students with both technology devices and mental health support, to faculty pivoting to a remote yet engaging learning environment, to alumni stepping up to volunteer with our programs, to individual and institutional funders contributing generously to emergency funds—you have all shown us leadership by example. Our community has shown us that when there is no script, we can build our own path to move forward.

This year’s annual report, “Build Your Own Path,” continues this theme of unpredictability and innovation. We highlight different ways that Prep for Prep continues to evolve its programs to empower students to pursue their passions and leadership skills. You will meet three alums —trailblazers in their communities—who are embracing their creativity in ways that defy any predefined paths to success. I hope you will enjoy learning more about them as much as I did.

Best regards,

Ruth Jurgensen