Oakland, CA (October 25, 2019) –– I was honored to be recognized by Stanford’s Graduate School of Education (GSE) with an Alumni Excellence in Education Award this fall. It was humbling to share my journey with current students, and to reflect on how far Beyond 12 has come since it was just an idea at the GSE. Ten years later, I couldn’t be more proud of the progress we’ve made.
My message to the audience gathered at Stanford was to think big and to focus on systemic change. Beyond 12 is proof that big ideas can turn into impactful organizations. My favorite moment from the event? I had the opportunity to thank the many people who have made Beyond 12’s journey possible, including my parents, grandmother, husband, board members, professors, mentors, partners, dear friends, our students, and my 8-year-old son who stole the show by standing up and taking a bow when I mentioned his name.
-Alex Bernadotte
About Beyond 12
Beyond 12 is a high-tech, high-touch coaching platform that helps high schools, college access programs, and colleges provide their students with the academic, social, and emotional support they need to succeed in higher education. Founded by Alexandra Bernadotte in 2009, Beyond 12 works to dramatically increase the number of historically under-represented students who graduate from college. For more information about Beyond 12, visit www.old.beyond12.org.