Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.6.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Breakthrough Twin Cities ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Alumni Spotlight: Havy Nguyen, '21](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/havy_nguyen_alumni_spotlight/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”||0px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Havy-Spotlight-Photo.png” title_text=”Havy Spotlight Photo” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]When she first heard about - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - April 2026](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-mar26-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]April Saturday Session was an opportunity for the BTC community to finally engage with our annual career fair for students after we were forced to postpone it in January. Students got the chance to interact with career - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - December 2025](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-dec25/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] December Saturday Session provided students with the opportunity to celebrate themselves, their identity, and engage with some fun holiday-themed activities. 7th – 10th grade students heard from either Padah Vang at the Mounds Park Academy site - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - March 2026](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-mar26/) - March Saturday Session provided students with the opportunity to learn more about their legal rights and the US legal system. 7th - 10th grade students heard from volunteers from the organization Street Law, which connects law students with classrooms to lead presentations on a wide range of legal topics. Students learned about their rights in - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - November 2025](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-nov25/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”27px|0px|21px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] The November Saturday Session provided students with the opportunity to build community, learn about other cultures, and think deeply about why it’s important to build connections across diverse backgrounds and cultures. 7th-10th grade students participated in a sequence of - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - September 2025](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-sept25/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”27px|0px|21px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] We kicked off the school year with some exciting changes at our September Saturday Session. Students held Town Hall elections to select their classroom representative. This year in addition to attending Town Hall meetings with Breakthrough staff, those representatives will - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on Mai Xee Vang](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-mai_xee_vang/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Mai-Xee-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Alum Spotlight on Mai Xee Vang As Breakthrough Twin Cities marks 20 years of inspiring - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - April 2025 Recap](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-apr2025/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] Hello, Breakthrough! We had a busy April Saturday Session last month, including the pilot of our new guest speaker series. Students at Chaska High School heard from speaker Pete Wong about redefining failure or pain as steps toward self-mastery including - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on Aunrika Tucker-Shabazz](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-aunrika-tucker-shabazz/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Aunrika-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Alum Spotlight on Aunrika Tucker-Shabazz As Breakthrough Twin Cities celebrates 20 years of empowering students and - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on LaLee Lo](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-lalee-lo/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/LaLee-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] As Breakthrough Twin Cities celebrates 20 years of student success and community impact, we’re spotlighting alumni whose stories reflect the - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on Julie Xiong](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-julie-xiong/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Julie-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Alum Spotlight on Julie Xiong As Breakthrough Twin Cities marks its 20th anniversary, we’re proud - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - March 2025 Recap](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-mar2025/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] Happy spring, Breakthrough! Last month’s March Saturday Sessions included presentations by the group Street Law, part of the Minnesota Justice Foundation. Lawyers and law students spoke to BTC students about legal rights and interactions with law enforcement and immigration enforcement - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on Karen Alderete Herrera](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-karen-herrera/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Karen-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] As Breakthrough Twin Cities celebrates 20 years of empowering students, we’re reflecting on the incredible journeys of our alumni. Today, - [Celebrating 20 Years of Breakthrough: Spotlight on Annie Jenkin LaVanway](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20yearsofbtc-annie-jenkin-lavanway/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ title_font=”||||||||” title_font_size=”36px” title_line_height=”1.2em” meta_font=”||||||||” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”|||”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding=”||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Annie-Spotlight-Photo.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] As we continue to celebrate 20 years of Breakthrough Twin Cities, we highlight the incredible stories of our alumni who - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - September 2024](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-september-2024/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] September Saturday Recap Breakthrough Twin Cities kicked off our school year Saturdays on September 14! Students reconnected with their friends across schools and many summer Teaching Fellows who have returned as Saturday facilitators. Advisors rolled out the Yearly Ambition Project (YAP), - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - October 2024](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-october-2024/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] October Saturday Recap We practiced our professional communication skills this month! Students in grades 7-10 learned tips on writing an effective email, analyzed examples of good and bad emails, and then drafted their own. Students could choose to write about an - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - February 2025 Recap](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-feb2025/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] February 2025 Saturday Recap Hello Breakthrough Community! At our February Saturday session, students in 7th-10th grades chose a bill up for debate in the Minnesota legislature this session, learned about the structure of a persuasive letter, and wrote their - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - November 2024](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-november-2024/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] November Saturday Recap Happy fall! We learned more about the path to college this month! Students in 7th – 10th grades played a college role-playing game – they created their own college avatar character and researched universities and scholarships. - [Breakthrough Saturday Recap - December/January Recap](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-saturday-recap-dec2024/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”] Dec 2024/Jan 2025 Saturday Recap Hello Breakthrough Community! Thank you to all the students and families who attended December’s Saturday session! We ended the year with holiday crafts and treats, and a presentation to parents/guardians about college credit courses in high school. - [Why Breakthrough? Voices of Current Students](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-voices-current-students/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″] [et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”] Five middle schoolers from BTC’s site in Eastern Carver County share advice on applying to Breakthrough and what they like most about being in the program. Students featured in order: Dylan, Zagal, Mykayla, Melva, and Nyarai. [/et_pb_text] [/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section] - [We made the news!](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/we-made-the-news/) - If you watched KARE 11 at all on Monday, February 21, you may have seen some familiar faces... that's right: Breakthrough Twin Cities was featured in the station's Communities that KARE series! Staff members Josh and Hallie had the opportunity to sit down and share the BTC story with producers, resulting in a wonderful spotlight of our organization that - [Be Breakthrough: Senam Akyea](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-october-senam-akyea/) - This month's “Be Breakthrough” student spotlight is Senam Akyea, a current senior at Highland Park High School. Senam has embodied many different roles at BTC; not only is she a current BTC student, but she’s been a Teaching Fellow (2020), a Program Intern, and a BTC Student Representative at various events like our annual Booyah - [Be Breakthrough: Max Yang](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-max-yang/) - For 18-year old Max, Breakthrough Twin Cities came around at just the right time. After receiving a scholarship in first grade, he was able to attend a private school from elementary up until the end of middle school. Though he was grateful for the academic opportunity, there was still something missing in his social life. - [Pa Chia - Booyah Bash 2019 Speech](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/yusanat-tway-booyah-bash-2019-speech-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Pa Chia Thao is a BTC Class of 2013 and Mount Holyoke College Class of 2017 alumna; check out her 2019 Booyah Bash speech! My name is Pa Chia Thao and I grew up in an immigrant Hmong family of seven. Neither of - [Yusanat Tway - Booyah Bash 2019 Speech](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/yusanat-tway-booyah-bash-2019-speech/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Yusanat Tway is a BTC senior at Humboldt High School who will be attending the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Check out her 2019 Booyah Bash speech! Once upon a time, there was a little girl from Burma. Her family escaped persecution from Burma because, - [Teaching Fellow Video](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/teaching-fellow-video/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Check out this awesome video from Myers Communications Group about the importance and impact of our Teaching Fellowship! [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_video src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Gala-edit-v5-FINAL.mov” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section] - [Angel Moreno Rodriguez](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/angel-moreno-rodriguez/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] See what Angel Moreno Rodriguez, a 7th grade BTC student at Highland Park Middle School, has to say about his time in Breakthrough! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help them understand - [Latrese Johnson](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/latrese-johnson/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Latrese Johnson is a BTC freshman attending Highland Park High School. Check out what she has to say about her time in BTC below! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help them understand what BTC - [Shouayee Vue](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/shouayee-vue/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Shouayee Vue, BTC Class of 2018 alum and 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow, shares her thoughts on Breakthrough in her interview below! 1. How did you become aware of Breakthrough, and why did you decide to get involved as a Teaching Fellow? I was first introduced to Breakthrough by Ashley - [Raj Beekie](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/raj-beekie/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Raj Beekie, Breakthrough Twin Cities student confidently pursues Ph.D. As a 14-year-old in 2009, Rajendra “Raj” Beekie thought of himself as an average guy from a middle-class family. “I liked to do what any normal teenager does – hang out with my friends, use social media, - [John Nguyen, BTC student "xcels" in and out of the classroom](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/john-nguyen-btc-student-xcels-in-and-out-of-the-classroom/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”21.78125px|0px|21px|0px”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] John Nguyen, Harding High School junior, has been a member of the BTC community since the summer before his seventh grade. For John, BTC offers academic rigor and social-emotional support, as well as a real sense of community. “My favorite part of - [David Pellegrini, BTC Teaching Fellow Pays it Forward](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/david-pellegrini/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] A Roseville Area High School and St. Olaf College alum, David Pellegrini discovered Breakthrough as a freshman in college. David knew he wanted to spend his summer doing something that would make an impact, but exactly what eluded him. An older cousin, teaching - [Roni Margalit](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/roni-margalit/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow Roni Margalit shares her perspectives on her time at Breakthrough in the interview below! 1. Please tell me a little bit about your background! Where did you grow up, where did you attend high school, are you currently - [Sophia Kor](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/sophia-kor/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Sophia Kor was an Instructional Coach–a licensed educator working directly on lesson-planning and curriculum with Teaching Fellows–during our 2018 Summer Session. See what she had to say about her experience in her interview below! 1. Please tell me a little bit about your background! Where did you - [Christian Roldan](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/christian-roldan/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”13px|0px|14.890625px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]See what Christian Roldan, an 8th Grade BTC student at St. Paul City School, has to say about Breakthrough! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help them understand what BTC does? It’s a program - [Laura Smith](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/laura-smith/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Check out what Laura Smith, one of our fantastic 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellows, has to say about Breakthrough Twin Citeis in her interview below. 1. Please tell me a little bit about your background! Where did you grow up, where did you attend high school, are - [Raniya Abawari](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/raniya-abawari/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] See what Raniya Abawari, a 7th grade BTC student attending Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented in St. Paul, has to say about Breakthrough in her interview below! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help them - [Shana Dukes](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/shana-dukes/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”13px|0px|14.328125px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Check out what Shana Dukes, a 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow, has to say about Breakthrough Twin Cities! 1. What did you enjoy most about your job as a Teaching Fellow? The thing I enjoyed the most was the opportunity to build relationships with my students. - [Jordan Hughes](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/jordan-hughes/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] See what Jordan Hughes, another fabulous 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow, has to say about his experience at Breakthrough Twin Cities in his interview below! 1. Please tell me a little bit about your background! Where did you grow up, where did you - [Lindsay Pluger](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/3470-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Check out what Lindsay Pluger, our Dean of Faculty, had to say about her time at BTC’s 2018 Summer Session in her interview below! Lindsay is currently a Program Coordinator at College Possible, working to support College Possible coaches in - [Ger Lor](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/ger-lor/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”21px|0px|21.640625px|0px”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Ger Lor is a BTC 9th grade student attending St. Paul Central High School. Check out what he has to say about Breakthrough in his interview below! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what - [Eh Mu](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/eh-mu/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Meet Eh Mu, another Breakthrough Twin Citeis student! Eh Mu is in eighth grade and attends Capitol Hill Gifted and Talented Magnet. Check out what he has to say about Breakthrough in his interview below. 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, - [Ariana Hernandez](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/ariana-hernandez/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Ariana Hernandez was a Teaching Fellow at Breakthrough Twin Cities during our 2018 Summer Session! Check out her thoughts on Breakthrough and the Teaching Fellowship in her interview below! 1. Please tell me a little bit about your background! Where did you grow - [Gabby Law](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/gabby-law/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hear what Gabby Law, a Summer Session 2018 Teaching Fellow, has to say about Breakthrough! 1. How did you become aware of Breakthrough, and why did you decide to get involved as a Teaching Fellow? Did you have any teaching experience before Breakthrough? - [Sumeya Ahmed](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/sumeya-ahmed/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Meet Sumeya Ahmed, a 7th grader at Breakthrough! Sumeya attends Linwood Monroe Arts Plus. Hear what she has to say about her time at Breakthrough! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help - [Roosevelt Yang](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/roosevelt-yang/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hear what Roosevelt Yang, a 2018 Summer Session Teaching Fellow, has to say about Breakthrough! 1. How did you become aware of Breakthrough, and why did you decide to get involved as a Teaching Fellow? I became aware of Breakthrough through another Teaching Fellow who was - [Xia Vang](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/xia-vang/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Xia Vang was a development intern at Breakthrough Twin Cities during Summer Session 2018. Check out what she had to say in her interview! 1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself! Where did you grow up, where did you go to - [Anthony Hansen](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/anthony-hansen/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Read what Anthony Hansen, a 9th Grade BTC student at Highland Park High School, has to say about Breakthrough! 1. If someone had never heard of BTC, what is the one thing you would say to help them understand what BTC does? We - [Olivia Gonzalez](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/olivia-gonzalez/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Meet Olivia Gonzalez, a Breakthrough Twin Cities Summer 2018 Teaching Fellow! 1. How did you become aware of Breakthrough, and why did you decide to get involved as a Teaching Fellow? I first heard about Breakthrough from my cousin who taught at Breakthrough Birmingham and a - [Hena Vadher, Student Support Coordinator](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/hena-vadher-student-support-coordinator/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/unnamed-1.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hena Vadher is one of the Student Support Coordinators at Breakthrough Twin Cities! Check out what she has to say about her experience at Breakthrough! Q1. Tell us a little about your background! Where did you grow up, where did - [Welcome, Jess Cantu!](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/welcome-jess-cantu/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/LinkedIn-Profile-Pic.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Jess Cantu is one of the newest members of our Board of Directors, and we’d like to give her a warm welcome to our Breakthrough family! Jess is a Human Resources leader with 12 years of experience in - [Thank you, Patrick!](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/thank-you-patrick/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Patrick-Deconinck-e1534977361532.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Patrick is a Belgium native who was relocated to the U.S. by 3M Company in 2001. He became a U.S. citizen in 2010. He is married to Marie-Andree. Together they raised their son Laurent, who is married to Linda. Patrick’s two grandchildren, - [Xia Neng Xiong's Booyah Bash Speech 2018](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/xia-neng-xiong-booyah-bash-speech-2018/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”||0px|0px” locked=”off”][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Slide1-2.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]At the age of - [Breakthrough, my Dearest Friend](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breakthrough-my-dearest-friend/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|0px|15.90625px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Yer Xiong, one of our 2018 Summer Session Program Interns, has written a poem about Breakthrough entitled “Breakthrough, my Dearest Friend.” We would like to share it with all of you! Yer is also a current high school student at Breakthrough and commented that “the - [Pondie Taylor's Booyah Bash Speech 2018](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/raven-pillmanns-booyah-bash-speech/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”||0px|0px” locked=”off”][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Slide2-2.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]I am a teacher. - [Happy 4th of July!](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/happy-4th/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”0px|0px|15.90625px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Breakthrough Twin Cities wishes you a very happy Fourth of July! Independence Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the values we all hold as Americans. It is also a chance to consider the diverse set of experiences each of us has had. Many Breakthrough students - [Darartu Doto's Booyah Bash Speech 2018](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/darartu-doto-booyah-bash-speech-2018/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”||0px|0px” locked=”off”][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Slide3-4.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]During my senior year - [Booyah Bash 2018](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/booyahbash2018/) - Join us for the evening at the Radisson Blu at Mall of America to support the Breakthrough Twin Cities class of 2018! - [Raven Pillmann's Booyah Bash Speech](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/pillmann/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”||0px|0px” locked=”off”][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”http://twincities.breakthroughcollaborativestaging.com/wp-content/uploads/Pillmann.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″]Many thanks to Breakthrough - [Shannon Jondro's Booyah Bash Speech](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/jondro/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”||0px|0px” locked=”off”][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”http://twincities.breakthroughcollaborativestaging.com/wp-content/uploads/Jondro.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″]As I look back - [January 2018 Saturday Session](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/january-2018-saturday-session/) - Join us for High School Options (8th grade), career exploration, and future planning! - [November 2017 Saturday Session](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/11-17-syp/) - Students in all grades will join us to explore high school readiness, college readiness, and the college path! ## Pages - [Home](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/) - Breakthrough Twin Cities [et_pb_section fb_built="1" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.0.98"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider module_class="bc-full-slider" _builder_version="3.0.98" header_font="Oswald|on||on|" header_font_size="33px" body_font="Oswald||||" background_position="top_left" custom_padding="200px||200px|" custom_padding_tablet="|||" custom_button="on" button_text_size="30px" button_bg_color="#ff9e16" button_border_width="1px" button_border_color="rgba(0,0,0,0)" button_font="Oswald|on||on|" button_use_icon="off" button_text_size_tablet="36px" button_text_size_phone="28px" button_text_size_last_edited="on|phone" auto="on" saved_tabs="all"][et_pb_slide heading="Whole group" button_text="LEARN ABOUT US!" button_link="https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/student-application/" alignment="bottom" _builder_version="3.0.98" background_image="https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Website-banner.png" background_position="top_center" background_color="#ffffff"][/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading="Minnesota State Capitol" button_text="SEE OUR IMPACT!" button_link="https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/mission/" alignment="bottom" _builder_version="3.0.98" background_image="https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Website-Main-Page-Photos.png" background_position="top_center" background_color="#ffffff"][/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading="Support us" button_text="SUPPORT OUR WORK!" button_link="https://secure.givelively.org/donate/breakthrough-twin-cities/give-to-the-max-2023" use_bg_overlay="off" use_text_overlay="off" - [Volunteer opportunities](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/volunteer/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/volunteers.png” _builder_version=”4.16″ max_width=”87%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” column_structure=”2_3,1_3″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ inline_fonts=”Abril Fatface” global_colors_info=”{}”] VOLUNTEER There are several opportunities within Breakthrough Twin Cities to donate your time and talent – and believe us, it helps! We rely on people who want to help our - [Employment](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/employment/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”35.296875px|0px|35px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”100%” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”width: auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”||||||||” inline_fonts=”Poppins” - [Program Dates](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/program-dates/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”||0px|” custom_padding=”||0px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||0px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ text_font=”|800||on|on||||” text_text_color=”#0079c1″ text_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”] Summer 2026 Dates [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|||” custom_padding=”0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ global_colors_info=”{}”] – June 23rd: Back to Breakthrough Summer Open House (5-7PM at your - [Events](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#0079c1″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”] BTC Events [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px||40px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Visitor-days-website-pic.png” title_text=”Visitor days website pic” url=”https://forms.gle/BKp9YKkWwtD77Xqg9″ url_new_window=”on” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ border_radii=”on|50px|50px|50px|50px” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||0px|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ - [Meet The Staff](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/meet-the-staff/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”100%” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”width: auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ background_color=”#0079c1″ custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” border_radii=”on|150px|150px|150px|150px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text - [Meet The Board](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/meet-the-board/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ admin_label=”Row” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”100%” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”width: auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”37.5781px|0px|37px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” - [Greg Lepak](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/greg-lepak/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.6″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL & DATA STRATEGY CULLIGAN WATER GREG LEPAK[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]Greg joined the Breakthrough Twin Cities Board of Directors in the summer of 2024, inspired by - [My Bookings](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events-3/my-bookings/) - CONTENTS - [Tags](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events-3/tags/) - CONTENTS - [Categories](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events-3/categories/) - CONTENTS - [Locations](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events-3/locations/) - CONTENTS - [Events](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/events-3/) - CONTENTS - [Alumni Newsletter Archive](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/alumni-newsletter-archive/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Newsletter-Header.png” _builder_version=”4.16″ max_width=”87%” module_alignment=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”] Alumni Newsletter Archive ⬇ Read all the alumni features from the Kudos Chronicles, BTC’s alumni newsletter! Do you know someone in our community who deserves some kudos? Submit a story or update! (You - [Teaching Fellow Application](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/teacher-application/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ admin_label=”Row” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”100%” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”width: auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/IMG_5915-2-scaled.jpg” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”||0px|” - [About](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/about/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”|||” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” make_fullwidth=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” width_phone=”100%” max_width_phone=”100%”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”width: auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_button button_url=”http://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/mission/” - [Annual Reports](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/annualreports/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Financials: [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Breakthrough-Twin-Cities990.8879.2022.pdf” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Most recent 990″ - [Darartu Doto](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/darartu-doto/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Darartu.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] NON-PROFIT FOUNDER BILISUMMAA DARARTU DOTO [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Darartu Doto is a Pomona College graduate with a degree in Economics. She began her career in media, spending four years in advertising at - [Donate](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/donate/) - Thank you for your investment in Breakthrough Twin Cities (BTC) and helping to empower our students with college readiness while preparing the next generation of future educators. Our programs continue to deliver outstanding results for both students and teaching fellows: 98% of Teaching Fellows reported improvement in teaching skills 85% of students reported that they - [Who's My Advisor?](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/whos-my-advisor/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Who’s My Advisor? [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Maya2.png” url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/maya-comfort/” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] St. Paul Middle School: Maya ComfortEmail: mcomfort@breakthroughtwincities.org [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/DAzhane.png” url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/dazhane-felder/” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] St. Paul Middle School: D’Azhane FelderEmail: dfelder@breakthroughtwincities.org [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column - [Kenneth Bailey](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/kenneth-bailey/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Kenneth-1.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] GENERAL COUNSEL & CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER PLANNED PARENTHOOD NORTH CENTRAL STATES KENNETH BAILEY [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Kenneth serves as the Chief Legal and Compliance Officer for Planned Parenthood North Central - [Dan Redpath](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/dan-redpath/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Dan.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] MANAGING PARTNER UNION 32 CRAFTHOUSE DAN REDPATH [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Dan Redpath is joining the BTC board in the Spring of 2023, in his words: “to be part of this amazing - [Mission & Vision](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/mission/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.83″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2024-09-09-at-10.52.24 AM-1.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ max_width=”90%” module_alignment=”center”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ custom_padding=”40px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Mission: Breakthrough Twin Cities supports - [Kalli Wilson](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/kalli-wilson/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Kalli_2.png” url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Website-Photos-1.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KALLI WILSON [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Kalli has been a part of the Breakthrough team since May 2022. She has worked in the Marketing and Communications realm for over - [Brent Sykes](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/calvin-chang/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Calvin.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] BLP SUMMER PROGRAM ADVISOR CALVIN CHANG [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hi! My name is Calvin Chang! My journey with Breakthrough started in 2021 as a Teaching Fellow. I realized my passion is in working with - [Alumni](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/btc-alumni/) - Stay connected, stay inspired! The Breakthrough Twin Cities Alumni Network is your space to reconnect, share your journey, and give back to the community that helped shape your path. Explore inspiring alumni stories, celebrate successes, and find opportunities to stay involved. - [Student Application](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/student-application/) - student application for a six-year, tuition-free academic enrichment and college preparatory program that helps students prepare for college success - [Rachel Erben](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/rachel-erben/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Rachel.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] ACADEMIC SUCCESS FELLOW RACHEL ERBEN [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Rachel grew up in Juneau, Alaska, but came to Minnesota to attend College of Saint Benedict and St. John’s University in Saint Cloud. She - [Katherine Spence](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/katherine-spence/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Kate.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] ACADEMIC SUCCESS FELLOW KATHERINE SPENCE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Katherine joined Breakthrough as a Literature Teaching Fellow for Summer 2025 and is thrilled to continue supporting students during the school year as an - [20th Anniversary Bash](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/20th-anniversary-bash/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/20th-Ann-QGiv-Graphics-3.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ background_color=”#FEFFF1″ specialty=”on” padding_bottom_1=”0px” padding_bottom_2=”0px” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ custom_margin=”||0px|” custom_padding=”||0px|”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ padding_bottom=”0px” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/museum.png” disabled_on=”on|off|off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ custom_margin=”||0px|” custom_padding=”||0px|”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ padding_bottom=”0px” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”||0px|” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″ inline_fonts=”Archivo Narrow”] Celebrate Breakthrough’s 20th Anniversary at this special event! Join Breakthrough Twin - [Student & Family Resources](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/student-family-resources/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Student & Family Resources [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″ inline_fonts=”Abhaya Libre”] Student HandbookAccess the Student Handbook HERE High School Summer Programs, Internships and Academic EnrichmentCheck out the Sprockets summer program finder General Resource Guides including Food, Housing, Legal Services, and Career Development Carver County: - [Mike Steinert](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/mike-steinert/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Mike.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER SECURIAN ASSET MANAGEMENT MIKE STEINERT [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Mike serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Securian Asset Management, the - [Amy Benson](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/chris-benner/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Chris.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] HEAD OF FIELD OPERATIONS & ENGINEERING AIGEN CHRIS BENNER [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Chris Benner is a values driven leader with a passion for mentoring and helping others become the best versions - [Annual Report](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/annual-report/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/ANNUAL-REPORT-2023-2024.pdf” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”2023-2024 Annual Report” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_button][et_pb_button button_url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Annual-Report-Website.pdf” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”2022-2023 Annual Report” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_button][et_pb_button button_url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Annual-Report-Updated.pdf” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”2021-2022 - [Directions](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/directions-contact/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_text background_layout=”dark” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#0079c1″ border_width_all=”16px” border_color_all=”#0079c1″] CONTACT US [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Main office: 651.748.5504 We are currently working on a hybrid schedule, only available - [Brent Sykes](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/brent-sykes/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Brent.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVISOR BRENT SYKES [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hey y’all, my name is Brent! As a full-time academic advisor, I advise many of our St. Paul 7th and 8th students and all - [Kortni Roberts](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/kortni-roberts/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Kortni.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] PROGRAM MANAGER KORTNI ROBERTS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Kortni Roberts, a vibrant and enthusiastic individual born in October (a true Libra at heart), graduated with a degree in Agribusiness from South Carolina State - [Print Newsletters](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/print-newsletters/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Fall-2024-Bulletin.png” url=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-Fall-Newsletter.pdf” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section] - [D'Azhane Felder](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/dazhane-felder/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/DAzhane.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] HIGH SCHOOL ADVISOR D’AZHANE FELDER [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] D’Azhane is a dedicated social services professional with over 6 years of experience supporting diverse populations. As a proud 2016 Breakthrough Alumni, D’Azhane graduated with - [Breaking Through!](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/breaking-through/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row custom_padding=”27px|0px|0px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″ custom_margin=”|||”] BREAKING THROUGH March 2022 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″ text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”#000000″] Be Breakthrough Student Spotlight: Jamila Dauda by Hallie O’Neill “For me, being new to this country, I didn’t know Minnesota very well,” Jamila Dauda said. “If it wasn’t for Breakthrough, I wouldn’t - [Wade Peterson](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wade-peterson/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Wade.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.79″] COLLEGE COUNSELOR WADE PETERSON [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Wade Peterson, College Counselor, joined Breakthrough in 2010. He works with 11th and 12th Grade Breakthrough Students on all aspects of the College Admissions Process. Previously, - [Maya Comfort](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/maya-comfort/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Maya2.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVISOR MAYA COMFORT [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Hello, I’m Maya! My journey with Breakthrough Twin Cities began in 2019 when I served as an AmeriCorps Promise Fellow, but my passion for - [Weily Grina-Shay](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/weily-grina-shay/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Weily-1.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] DEVELOPMENT & OPERATIONS COORDINATOR WEILY GRINA-SHAY [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Weily’s passion for serving the community through education brought her to Breakthrough Twin Cities. Before joining the team, Weily was the Executive Director - [Pablo Segovia](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/pablo-segovia/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Pablo.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] SEGMENT STRATEGY LEADER PENTAIR PABLO SEGOVIA [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Pablo is a passionate strategy, marketing, and business development executive with ~19 years of experience working in a diverse range of industries - [Sami Banat](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/sami-banat/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] STUDENT MACALESTER COLLEGE SAMI BANAT [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Sami re-joined in April of 2024 for his second stint on the BTC Board of Directors. Sami grew up in Saint Paul, MN and is - [Marilyn Rivkin](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/marilyn-rivkin/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Marilyn.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] MARILYN RIVKIN [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Since learning about Breakthrough Twin Cities in 2017, Marilyn has been an ardent supporterand advocate of the organization – inspired by its demonstrated impact and impressed - [Fang Zhou](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/fang-zhou/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Fang.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] LABORATORY DIRECTOR 3M FANG ZHOU [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Fang Zhou joins the Breakthrough Twin Cities Board in 2024. BTC’s mission of supporting both students on their journey to college and the - [Tanya Schmitt](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/tanya-schmitt/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Tanya.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] SENIOR HR DIRECTOR, GLOBAL FOOD & BEVERAGE DIVISION ECOLAB TANYA SCHMITT [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Tanya joined BTC’s Board of Directors in 2021, excited by the two-fold mission of realizing students’ potential - [Amy Benson](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/amy-benson-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Amy-Benson.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] CHIEF PEOPLE & COMMUNITY OFFICER SHIPT AMY BENSON [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Amy Benson joined the Breakthrough Twin Cities Board in 2022 because she was inspired by the organization’s incredible results and - [Laura Blomberg](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/laura-blomberg/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Laura-1.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] LEADER, GOLF, GROUNDS, & IRRIGATION, INTERNATIONAL, AND FINANCETHE TORO COMPANY LAURA BLOMBERG [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Laura Blomberg was drawn to Breakthrough because of her passion for equitable education and the - [Amanda Abdo Sheahan](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/amanda-abdo-sheahan/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] EDUCATIONAL COACH, LOGISTICS COORDINATOR MY BURGER LLC AMANDA ABDO SHEAHAN [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Amanda Abdo Sheahan is a private tutor, Event Coordinator for My Burger, a small chain of Twin Cities burger restaurants, and - [Lori Nixon](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/lori-nixon/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Lori.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Assistant Professor of Accounting University of Wisconsin – River Falls LORI NIXON [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Lori Nixon joined the Breakthrough Twin Cities Board in 2022 and serves as the Treasurer/Finance Committee - [Sarah Peters](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/sarah-peters/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Sarah.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] PRODUCTION BLACK DOG HOMES CO. SARAH PETERS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Sarah Peters began volunteering with Breakthrough Twin Cities in 2022 as part of the committee for the Senior Celebration. Sarah joined - [Kelly Calendine](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/kelly-calendine/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Kelly.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] CLIENT DIRECTOR DEV 10 KELLY CALENDINE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Kelly Calendine joined the BTC board in 2024. She believes one of humanity’s most noble pursuits is to support others to live - [Instructional Coach Residency](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/instructional-coaches/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/160706-BTC-2346-1.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] CULTIVATE THE NEXT GENERATION OF EDUCATORS - [Huldah Philips](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/huldah-philips/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Hulda.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] HR MANAGER HULDAH PHILIPS [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Driven by her people first philosophy, Huldah challenges the status quo to create a workplace where HR is synonymous with positive change and employee well-being. - [The Summer Program](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/the-summer-program/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Teaching at Breakthrough Twin Cities is more than a job. It is - [Summer 2023](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/summer-2023/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Summer 2023 Information [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/bus.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Bussing Questions? If you have questions regarding bussing this Summer, please reach out to the appropriate site staff member: ECC: Emma Silkey, esilkey@breakthroughtwincities.org or (952) 451-4574 MPA: Ryan Klein, rklein@breakthroughtwincities.org or (651) - [Missie Koenig](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/elizabeth-orme/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Elizabeth.png” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Founder & CEO of Creatively Focused ELIZABETH ORME [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”26.8125px|0px|26px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Elizabeth Orme is the Founder & CEO of Creatively Focused – an educator-driven technology company committed to increasing the retention - [Martha Malinski](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/martha-malinski/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Martha.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] COLLEGE COUNSELOR MARTHA MALINSKI [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Martha has worked in higher education for over twenty years at various colleges and universities. Currently in addition to her work at Breakthrough Twin Cities, she - [Black History Month 2023](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/black-history-month-2023/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Happy Black History Month, Breakthrough! [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] February is a time to reflect on the unique and essential history of African Americans. That includes some of the worst atrocities and greatest victories we’ve experienced as - [Donate](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/donate-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″ custom_padding=”40px|0px|0px|0px”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column_inner type=”1_2″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Nguyen-Yale-Photo-2.jpeg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type=”1_2″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/BTCdonatebutton.jpg” url=”https://secure.givelively.org/donate/breakthrough-twin-cities/btc-year-end-appeal-2022″ url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Or, mail your donation to: Breakthrough Twin Cities 2051 Larpenteur Ave E Saint Paul, MN 55109 [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image show_bottom_space=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Breakthrough - [Simon Lee](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/simon-lee/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Simon-cropped.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] PROGRAM MANAGER SIMON LEE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner custom_padding=”30.0781px|0px|30.0781px|0px” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Simon Lee has developed a passion for youth empowerment and education over the last five years. He began by leading middle school backpacking trips with - [Josh Reimnitz](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/josh-reimnitz/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Josh.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.72″] EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOSH REIMNITZ [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.72″]Josh Reimnitz first heard about Breakthrough while leading another youth-serving nonprofit. He was so excited about Breakthrough’s mission he helped establish a partnership between the two organizations! - [Shana Dukes](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/shana-dukes-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Shana.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTOR SHANA DUKES [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Shana is no stranger to Breakthrough. She has two summers as a teaching fellow at Saint Paul Central and recently served as a Program Coordinator for - [Lesley Chester](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/lesley-chester/) - [et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Website-Headshots-3-e1646080018359.jpg” align=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT LESLEY CHESTER [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Lesley joined the Breakthrough team in February 2022. She is a proud fundraising generalist with more than 28 years of experience in fund development and marketing that includes individual giving, annual giving, planned - [Emma Silkey](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/emma-silkey/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-presentation-e1627400961240.png” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] PROGRAM MANAGER EMMA SILKEY [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.72″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″]Emma joined the Breakthrough team in July of 2021. She graduated from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where she was able to continue her love for hockey by - [Press Releases](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/press-releases/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] - [Apply](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/apply/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”/student-application” button_text=”Apply to Become a Breakthrough Student” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”/teacher-application” button_text=”Apply to - [Newsletter Sign-up](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/newsletter/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”3.0.85″]To sign up to receive our email newsletter, fill in the following fields - [Application Submitted](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/application-submitted/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_post_title][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] Your application for Breakthrough Twin Cities has been successfully submitted! Our staff take the application review process very seriously and need to spend time to ensure we can make offers as fairly as possible. Our process takes more than - [Volunteer Recognition](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/volunteer-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/53906784_10161609751755094_6359481925417041920_o-1.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″ background_size=”contain”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.98″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION Our fabulous volunteers are critical to our ability to deliver the individualized programing for which we are recognized. Whether it’s evaluating student and Teaching Fellow applications, assisting students with a college essay, or supporting our many administrative tasks, - [Student Surveys 2019](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/4324-2/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”https://www.tfaforms.com/379995″ url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Summer Program Survey (Grades 7, 8, & 9)” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_button button_url=”http://bit.ly/BTCSAYO2019″ url_new_window=”on” button_text=”SAYO Survey (Grades 7, 8, & 9)” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.98″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section] - [The Teaching Fellowship](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/the-teaching-fellowship/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″] STUDENTS TEACHING STUDENTS At Breakthrough, all of the courses are taught entirely - [Support](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/support/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/18449748_10158771457770094_8213462590332375608_o-2.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ specialty_columns=”3″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″] THANKS TO OUR VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN SPONSORS FROM OUR 2017 BOOYAH BASH! [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column_inner type=”1_3″ saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/3M-Logo-2.jpg” url=”http://www.3m.com/” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column_inner][et_pb_column_inner type=”1_3″ saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ box_shadow_position=”outer” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″] PATRICK AND - [Partner](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/partner/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/DSC07399-2.jpg” _builder_version=”3.0.98″][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.85″] BECOME A PARTNER We’re always looking for new partnerships to help expand the success of our students. From educational institutions and school districts to corporate partners, working together with like-minded organizations only increases our reach and ability to get as many - [New Brand](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/new-brand/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_margin=”|||” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” custom_css_main_1=”width: auto !important;” admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”off” custom_css_main=”width: auto !important;”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” text_color=”light” admin_label=”Post Title” _builder_version=”3.0.47″ title_font=”Oswald|on||on|” background_color=”#0074c9″ custom_padding=”15px|30px|10px|40px” module_bg_color=”#0074c9″][/et_pb_post_title][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/wp-content/uploads/BTC_Lockup_Affiliate_Short_3Color_Lrgrgb_v1-Twin-Cities.png” _builder_version=”3.0.85″][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.0.85″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.85″ parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.0.98″] The Breakthrough Collaborative, of which Breakthrough Twin ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Story](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/story/) - [Event](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/event/) - [Featured](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/featured/) - [ImportantEvent](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/event/importantevent/) - [Alumni Stories](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/alumni-stories/) - [Saturday Session Recaps](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/category/saturday-session-recaps/) ## Tags - [alumni](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/tag/alumni/) - [spotlight](https://www.breakthroughtwincities.org/tag/spotlight/)