Growing Leadership for Greater Impact
Welcoming New Board Members
At High Jump, our Board of Directors plays a vital role in advancing our mission to expand access to life-changing educational opportunities for Chicago’s middle school students. With gratitude for the steadfast leadership of our current board, we are proud to announce the addition of five new members whose experience, vision, and passion will strengthen our collective work:
Jenny Bekkerman
“What drew me to High Jump is the students and alumni I’ve had the privilege of meeting. They aren’t just working to improve their own lives through education — they’re dedicated to making their communities and the world around them a better place.”
Prab Chawla
“Chicago is my home, and High Jump’s commitment to educational equity in this city truly resonates with me. Supporting students at such a formative stage is both inspiring and deeply meaningful to me.”
Yeny Ciborowski
“My profound belief in the transformative potential of education made me want to join the High Jump Board. By joining, I have the opportunity to contribute directly to empowering Chicago’s bright young minds and ensuring their potential is not limited by their economic circumstances.”
Jymme Chaouki
“What inspired me most to join the board was seeing High Jump’s impact on the Chicago community. Interviewing candidates during the cohort selection process and then seeing students walk the stage at the most recent graduation truly solidified my commitment.”
Nichole Lopez-Tackett
“I believe that early access to educational opportunities is the catalyst for generational change — uplifting not only individuals but entire communities. I am inspired by High Jump’s bold mission to close the opportunity gap and want to be part of driving meaningful, lasting change.”
These new members share a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Their perspectives reflect both personal inspiration and professional expertise.
Together, these five leaders join an extraordinary community of current board members whose commitment, vision, and advocacy drive High Jump forward every day.
As a united Board of Directors, this growing group of leaders is helping to close the opportunity gap and shape pathways to high school, college, and beyond.
High Jump is just the beginning of a successful educational journey for many students. More than ever, we must continue to build equitable learning opportunities for Chicago’s middle school youth.