Who We've Funded

Sioux Falls, SD — Willette Capers was told as a child that she was born to move mountains. That vision stayed with her and inspired her to pursue a career focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Minneapolis, MN — Abdirizak Diis believes in the power of education to change lives. Born in a refugee camp in Somalia, then evacuated to Kenya when he was young, he faced daunting challenges to complete his primary, secondary, and post-secondary education.

Minneapolis, MN — Omar Guevara Soto imagines a community where food is readily available to every family at home and in school. A leader in culinary services in Minneapolis Public Schools, he has helped mobilize a revolution in school food over the past decade.

Minneapolis, MN — Alexander Leonard knows personally the impact of systemic racism and trauma on individuals in the education system.

Minneapolis, MN — Mikisha Nation is on a mission to ensure that young people have greater power in the decisions that shape their lives.

Minneapolis, MN — Kim Park Nelson views labor unions as key pathways for creating racially equitable and inclusive communities.

Little Canada, MN — Rose Chu, Ph.D., is on a mission to transform the public narrative about the teaching profession. She believes that teachers uncover the brilliance of students and are a pillar of democracy.

Saint Paul, MN — Dr. Artika Tyner is an accomplished educator, civil rights attorney, law professor and award-winning children's book author who beat the odds as a child growing up surrounded by incarcerated family members.

New Hope, MN — Pang Yang is on a mission to close the opportunity gap for Hmong students. She believes that Hmong language reclamation, student-centered learning and student mental health are crucial factors in addressing the gap.

Brooklyn Park, MN — Salma Hussein is a connector, educator, healer and passionate advocate for Somali women and girls.

Wakpala, SD — Kimimila Locke (Dakota, Ahtna Dené & Anishnaabe) is on a quest to radically improve educational outcomes for Lakota youth.

Mounds View, MN — Brian Lozenski believes Minnesota must reimagine the fundamental assumptions of education if the state is to eliminate racial disparities and meet the needs of Minnesota’s communities of color.