Be a part of the next generation to help transform education in Cleveland and prepare scholars for choice-filled lives!
Mission
Working in partnership with the Friends of Breakthrough Board of Directors, the Emerging Leaders group is dedicated to engaging Cleveland’s young professionals in support of educational equity. This dynamic group will increase community involvement with Breakthrough Public Schools by raising awareness of the network’s mission, organizing volunteer initiatives, and hosting events that bring together like-minded professionals passionate about making a lasting impact in urban education.
What Does an Emerging Leader Look Like at Friends of Breakthrough Public Schools?
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Age 18 and up – there's no upper limit!
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In the early to middle stages of your professional journey
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Eager to learn and grow with guidance from experienced community leaders
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Passionate about educational equity and the belief that every child can succeed—no matter their zip code
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Committed to the idea that education is the great equalizer
Whether it’s through volunteering your time, making a financial contribution, or advocating for high-quality education for all children—we welcome your support!
Reasons to Participate
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Make a direct, meaningful impact on the lives of Breakthrough students and alumni
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Build relationships and gain insights from Friends of Breakthrough Board members and other community leaders
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Grow your network by connecting with professionals who share your passion for educational equity
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Amplify awareness of Breakthrough Schools and support key fundraising and advocacy events
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Develop leadership skills while advancing a cause that transforms lives and communities
Membership Tiers & Benefits
Membership Term: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Social Membership
free membership with completed registration form
- Quarterly updates on Emerging Leaders (EL) initiatives and events
- Access to volunteer opportunities
- Networking opportunities with:
- Fellow young professionals from diverse backgrounds
- Members of the Friends of Breakthrough Schools Board
- 20% discount on all Emerging Leader pay-per-event registrations (excludes BASH)
- Exclusive rate for the annual Breakthrough BASH on Friday, April 24, 2026: $200/person (Must be a registered Emerging Leader)
Leadership Membership
$150 minimum annual donation
- Includes all Social Membership Benefits, plus:
- Exclusive Emerging Leaders polo shirt as a thank-you gift
- Free admission to EL-hosted social, networking, and programming events
- Opportunity to take on a leadership role within EL
Expectations of leadership
- Attend meetings virtually or in person: September, November, January, March, May
- Tour at minimum 1 of our 5 campuses
- Become familiar with:
- Breakthrough's mission, history, structure, key school statistics
- Emerging Leaders mission
- Attend Emerging Leaders volunteer, awareness and fundraising events
- Invite personal contacts and peers to attend events and tours with you
Our Leadership Team
Lauren Andrews
Lauren Andrews
AVP, LOB Risk Specialist Sr.
PNC Bank
LinkedIn
I support Breakthrough because Breakthrough empowers the scholars to lead impactful lives full of opportunity, instilling confidence and helping provide the necessary skills to help reach ones’ full potential.
As an Emerging Leader, I am able to give back while having a great time. Every volunteer event, Breakthrough Bash, or fundraising event you attend with Breakthrough, it’s guaranteed you will be surrounded by people who share the same passion for equity in education and you will leave with at least one more friend than you came with! Which leads me into my second point of effortlessly growing my network. I have met so many amazing Friends of Breakthrough Board members, teachers, young professionals, etc. who have welcomed me with open arms and make you feel part of the Breakthrough family.
Taylor bowen
Taylor Bowen
Project Manager
Lubrizol Corporation
LinkedIn
Nick Hylant
Nick Hylant
President
Hylant
LinkedIn
I joined the Emerging Leaders group at Breakthrough school after learning more about their mission and their impact in the Cleveland Community.
I have gained a stronger network with local leaders who all desire to make an impact in our community.
Derrick Johnson
Derrick Johnson
Breakthrough Class of 2016
Affiliate Video and Technology Associate
Boston Red Sox
LinkedIn
I support Breakthrough because Breakthrough Schools are special. As a former student, I remember being supported by so many different people, and now I want to return that support.
As an Emerging Leader, I've gained new relationships--not just with people who are passionate about furthering their careers, but also committed to helping the next generation reach their goals.
Celeste Kamasa Scott
Celeste Kamasa Scott
Breakthrough Class of 2011
Friends of Breakthrough Schools Board of Directors
Mechanical Engineer
Singh+ Associates
LinkedIn
Breakthrough is more than just a network of schools, it’s the foundation that provides an education for thousands of scholars that guides them to lives full of impact and opportunities. Breakthrough holds true to their mission of empowering scholars to reach their full potential in life and provides continued support beyond graduating.
Being an emerging leader provides the opportunity to foster an environment for others to not only learn about and support Breakthrough. But also, being an emerging leader, stays true to it’s name through events that allow for networking and providing useful tools to become leaders and have a positive impact in their communities.
Aurora Kitko, Chair
Aurora Kitko
Friends of Breakthrough Schools Board of Directors
HCM Sales Consultant
isolved
LinkedIn
I support Breakthrough because all kids deserve their hierarchy of needs met and an equitable education, no matter their location, background, or socioeconomic status and the best way to be a part of the solution is to get involved in your community.
I'm grateful to be a conduit between the EL board and the FOB board to ensure that the most impactful people can join our team to serve our mission of fundraising and advocacy.
Mac Lagor
Mac Lagor
Corporate Development Manager
TransTech
LinkedIn
I’m a volunteer for Breakthrough Schools in Cleveland, helping provide opportunities and support to our community’s young learners.
Supporting young students through Breakthrough Schools matters to me because early education lays the foundation for the future of our communities. In my view, few things are more important than education—and Breakthrough goes beyond the classroom to make a lasting impact on the lives of the next generation.
I joined the Emerging Leaders group to connect with other young professionals who care about expanding educational opportunities in Cleveland. It’s a chance to give back, grow as a leader, and support Breakthrough Schools’ mission in a meaningful way
Cooper mead
Cooper Mead
Strategic Development Manager
Pella Windows and Doors | Gunton Corporation
LinkedIn
I believe education is critical for personal and societal advancement. Breakthrough provides strong, cutting-edge education and programming to those that may not have had access without it.
As an Emerging Leader, I am able to be an advocate for Breakthrough to bring awareness to this great organization. I am also fortunate to experience firsthand the power of education in our local community.
Shintaro Ng
Shintaro Ng
Management Associate, Wealth Advisory
Glenmede Trust Company
LinkedIn
I support Breakthrough Public Schools because they combine my belief in progress through education with my love for the Cleveland community. I’ve been impressed by Breakthrough’s commitment to its students, even beyond their time in the K–8 schools, through the Beyond Breakthrough program. Their continued engagement with alumni reflects an impact-driven mindset that resonates with me.
I joined the Emerging Leaders program because it offers an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded young professionals who share a passion for education and a love for this city. I’ve found the community to be welcoming and diverse in experiences, while maintaining a shared commitment to the program’s mission.
Anthony Osby Jr.
Anthony Osby Jr.
Deputy Bailiff
Cleveland Municipal Courts
LinkedIn
I joined the Emerging Leaders to support Breakthrough and Breakthrough Schools because I truly believe in helping children grow through education. I’ve always felt that knowledge empowers individuals to reach their full potential, and Breakthrough does this in such creative and inspiring ways. Supporting children’s development is not just about shaping future leaders—it’s about making a positive impact on the entire community, and that’s something I’m proud to be a part of.
Kyle Pavilonis
Kyle Pavilonis
Tax Experienced Manager
BDO USA
LinkedIn
I was first introduced to Breakthrough schools and their mission at their annual Breakthrough BASH, which encapsulates the reason I support the organization. I support Breakthrough Public Schools because the passion and energy people bring to the organization is unmistakable—and it translates into real impact for students. What I especially admire is Breakthrough’s approach to education as a pathway for individual empowerment, not just academic success. Their model recognizes students as whole people with unique strengths, goals, and potential—and then offers the structure and support that help each student grow with confidence. Breakthrough doesn’t just prepare students to succeed in the classroom; they help students see themselves as capable leaders of their own futures.
I am joining Emerging Leaders to connect with others who share a passion for Breakthrough and community involvement as a whole. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with the team, building relationships, and exploring ways to further advance the mission of Breakthrough Schools.
Aaron SCott
Aaron Scott
IT Support Specialist
RL Canning
LinkedIn
I support Breakthrough Schools because it's important to support the education of the next generation. I’ve also supported and been to a number of Breakthrough events and I would like to be more involved.
I am joining emerging leaders because I want to support the communities that Breakthrough supports.
Lead the Way
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More Ways to Give
Kindergarten to Career. Every Step. Every Stage. To help support, donate today via credit card, check, or stock. Thank you!
Donate by Check
Checks payable to: Friends of Breakthrough Schools
3615 Superior Avenue E
Bldg 44, Suite 4403D
Cleveland, OH 44114
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Please contact Melodee McCrodden for NEW stock account information!
Calendar & Events
Recent Events
Trivia Happy Hour
The energy was infectious! From bursts of laughter over tricky questions to collaborative team huddles, the night was focused on letting loose and enjoying the process. This event successfully blended a stimulating mental workout with a genuine chance to build your professional and social circle within the community.
Thank you to everyone who made this evening a success. Keep an eye out for our future events—we look forward to continuing to host spaces where Emerging Leaders can connect, learn, and have a blast!