Thrive Scholars Strengthens Leadership for Greater Impact
Thrive Scholars, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering high-achieving students from under-resourced communities, has made significant strides in its mission by expanding its National Board of Directors. This strategic enhancement introduces notable leaders from finance, technology, and education, indicating Thrive’s commitment to increasing access to elite colleges and career opportunities for deserving students.
New Board Members
The newly appointed board members include:
- - Azucena Flores, an Account Manager at Amazon Local Good and a proud alumna of Thrive Scholars;
- - Neil Malik, Chief Executive Officer of K1 Investment Management, who has long championed education access;
- - Dr. Alejandro Delgado, Chief Financial Officer of the Enterprise Product Portfolio at General Motors, combining business acumen with educational insights.
According to Drew Martin, CEO of Thrive Scholars, the inclusion of Azucena, Neil, and Alejandro will be crucial in scaling the organization’s impact. They have firsthand knowledge of the barriers many students face and are committed to removing obstacles along the educational path.
The Importance of Board Growth
The expansion comes at a pivotal time. As discussions around college access gains national attention, Thrive Scholars is at the forefront, providing comprehensive support to over 1,400 students annually, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. The organization focuses on a holistic support model that encompasses academic, emotional, and career guidance systems.
Meet Azucena Flores
Flores brings a unique perspective as a first-generation college graduate from UC Berkeley, later achieving her MBA from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. “Thrive has played a pivotal role in my success,” she expressed. By joining the board, she aims to give back to an organization that significantly influenced her life. Her appointment is a landmark achievement, showcasing the potential of alumni in leadership roles.
Neil Malik’s Commitment
Malik, who heads K1 Investment Management, has previously supported various educational initiatives through roles on the boards of Junior Achievement Southern California and Sponsors for Educational Opportunity. His focus on equitable access in high-impact industries underscores his dedication to transforming lives through education. "Education is a gateway to opportunities that all students deserve," he stated.
Insights from Dr. Alejandro Delgado
Dr. Delgado, an economist with extensive experience in global markets, embodies the intersection of academia and industry. His history as a student from under-resourced backgrounds fuels his commitment to mentorship. “I wish to share my journey and learnings to positively impact the lives of students,” he remarked.
The Future of Thrive Scholars
With the expansion of its board, Thrive Scholars not only reflects its national relevance but its long-term vision of cultivating systemic change in higher education and employment landscapes. The combined expertise of its board members strengthens its mission to build pathways for students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education.
Thrive Scholars operates through a rigorous six-year program that combines academic preparation and professional development, preparing students for success beyond college. As they continue to grow, their growing network of corporate and philanthropic partnerships, including major companies such as Google and Fidelity Investments, enhances their ability to influence change on a systemic level.
For those interested in supporting the mission of Thrive Scholars, whether as a mentor, partner, or donor, more information is available on their
official website. Together, as a community, the aim is to provide lasting change and opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
In summary, the announcements surrounding the expansion of the Thrive Scholars board reflect not just a commitment to education accessibility, but a resurgence of hope for countless students ready to overcome their barriers through resilience and support.