Dear Friends,
I am thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to advance FLIA’s mission as the incoming executive director. For me, this work is deeply personal and represents the type of support I once needed.
I graduated during the Great Recession with the odds already stacked against me as a low income, first generation college student. For months after graduation, I struggled. I was forced to take a retail job to get by, all while continuing to apply and interview for entry level jobs. It was sobering to realize my Ivy League degree wasn’t enough to land me well-paying work, let alone lift me out of poverty as first gens are often promised. My challenges as a post-grad had compounding effects I still grapple with. I now know that I hadn’t been taught the hidden curriculum of work in the 21st Century—soft skills like networking and personal branding—critical to professional success.
Nearing 15 years since graduating, I have both learned hard lessons and enjoyed great successes along the way, all which have brought me to this exciting juncture. For me, FLIA signifies a larger paradigm shift supporting a future where fair and meaningful work opportunities are accessible to all young people. Our work means new possibilities to better equip traditionally marginalized students with the insights and experiences they need to have successful careers and make a positive impact on our society. I couldn’t be prouder to have an opportunity to help lead the way.
Because of our co-founder and outgoing executive director Kirsten Abel’s incredible vision and leadership, FLIA impact has been wide-reaching: producing 63 fellows and counting, nurturing a talented and devoted alumni network, and building capacity within our partner organizations, effectively touching the lives of thousands of youths. It is a great privilege to work closely with her during this transition. We will remain partners in imagining FLIA’s bright future and in making sure it remains true to its original aims.
During these still uncertain times, I know FLIA’s work is more important than ever. I look forward to working in a spirit of partnership and collaboration with all of our stakeholders as we forge ahead together in this new chapter.
Warmly,
Milly
Incoming Executive Director
View our full press release here