#USA #New York #Per Scholas #Charles Song #Paul Bajus

Per Scholas Welcomes New Leaders to Its Board of Directors

Per Scholas, a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing economic opportunities through no-cost technology training, has made significant announcements in its pursuit of greater impact and reach. On April 21, 2026, the organization revealed the appointments of Paul Bajus and Charles Song to its Board of Directors. These new board members bring years of experience within the financial services sector and are poised to contribute to Per Scholas’ ambitious vision for the future.

Who Are the New Board Members?

Paul Bajus

Paul Bajus holds the position of Head of U.S. Retail Solutions Service at TD Bank, where his key focus is on enhancing customer experience and providing strategic guidance across the retail banking sector. His background also includes an impressive stint as Chief of Staff in the U.S. CEO’s office at TD Bank, offering him exceptional insight into operational improvements and strategic frameworks within large financial institutions. Not only does he bring corporate experience, but he also has a rich history of service in the U.S. Army, having dedicated 15 years to both enlisted and commissioned roles.

Bajus expressed his enthusiasm for joining Per Scholas by highlighting the organization’s commitment to fostering real economic mobility. He emphasizes that the need for tech talent is rapidly increasing, and traditional pathways often fall short, pointing to the organization’s role in bridging this gap as highly critical.

Charles Song

Charles Song is the President and Chief Investment Officer at Tishman Capital Partners, overseeing a diversified investment strategy that encompasses various sectors, including public and private real estate and equities. With a robust background in investment banking, he previously served as a Managing Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, granting him deep insights into real estate finance and capital markets.

Song shares Bajus' enthusiasm for Per Scholas, expressing excitement over the organization’s forward trajectory and potential for innovation. He believes that as the landscape of work evolves, especially with the advent of AI technologies, it is crucial to ensure these changes promote equality rather than widen existing disparities.

The Vision for Future Impact

The addition of Bajus and Song to the Board of Directors comes at a pivotal time for Per Scholas, which aims to train and reskill a staggering 25,000 technologists annually by the year 2030. This goal highlights the organization's commitment to improving access to high-growth tech careers and supporting economic mobility across the United States.

Plinio Ayala, CEO of Per Scholas, expressed confidence in the new board members’ capabilities. He noted that their dedication to fostering access to opportunities, coupled with their extensive know-how in finance and organizational dynamics, will be instrumental as Per Scholas continues to grow.

Caitlyn Brazill, President of Per Scholas, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the strategic advantages Bajus and Song bring at a moment when the organization seeks to deepen partnerships with employers across various industries. These collaborations are essential for creating talent pipelines tailored to the needs of tech employers, from major corporations to innovative startups.

Per Scholas operates with a mission to equip individuals from diverse backgrounds with essential tech skills, thus positioning them for success in the labor market. With a focus on inclusivity, over half of the learners have only a high school diploma as their highest educational credential, showcasing the organization's effectiveness in opening doors for opportunities.

Conclusion

As per Scholas celebrates its 30th anniversary, the incorporation of experienced leaders like Paul Bajus and Charles Song is a testament to its growth and unwavering mission. The organization stands committed to altering the landscape of tech education and fostering an inclusive workforce. By continuing to innovate and scale its impactful programs, Per Scholas aims to ensure that as technology evolves, it becomes a tool for empowerment and equity rather than a catalyst for division.

For more information on Per Scholas and its mission, visit PerScholas.org. Follow the organization on social media platforms for direct updates on their initiatives and impact stories.