The Kaplan Educational Foundation (KEF) recognized leaders in the KEF community who have played critical roles in ensuring educational and economic equity for community college students of color nationwide at its inaugural Stand up for Diversity Awards, which was held virtually on November 17. The event highlighted honorees’ efforts and gave thanks to the many partners and organizations that have supported KEF by providing internships, mentorships, and financial support to ensure the organization meets its mission.

Established in 2006 by KEF, the Kaplan Leadership Program helps high-potential, low-income and underrepresented community college students complete their associate's degree and successfully transfer and go on to earn a four-year bachelor's degree at the nation's most highly-selective schools. The program provides stipends for living expenses, extensive tutoring, academic advisement services, leadership and career training, and other resources and support to help them expand their personal goals, and eventually attain leadership roles in their professions and communities.

The five honorees are:

• Andrew Temte, senior advisor at Kaplan and former CEO of Kaplan Professional
• Rachel Chambers, data studio community component (DSCC) library community manager at Google Nest
• Keith Medansky, partner at DLA Piper
• Cheryl Orr, partner at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
• William Gould, partner at Holland & Knight LLP

"The challenges that COVID has presented to our students are many, making it necessary for all of us to redouble our level of support. One thing we are particularly grateful and proud to say is that the commitment of our Kaplan Educational Foundation community members has never wavered. They’ve risen to the occasion time and time again and we are so glad to recognize them in this important way,” says Nancy Lee Sanchez, executive director, KEF. “These honorees have remained consistent in their dedication to increase access to higher education for historically under-represented groups and we look forward to many more years working together.”

Andrew Temte, senior advisor to Kaplan and former CEO of Kaplan Professional said, “A brighter, more enlightened future is one in which we all stand up for diversity, especially those of us who have the privilege of choice to speak up. By listening to more viewpoints, we can do more, learn more, and create a global geopolitical environment that fosters the kind creativity and innovation that will be necessary to ensure our future. “

Since its inception, Kaplan Leadership Scholars have been accepted to the country’s most competitive schools, including Yale, Stanford, Brown, Amherst, Cornell, Mount Holyoke, Smith and many others. Eighty-seven percent of Kaplan Scholars earn a bachelor’s degree.

For more information on the Kaplan Leadership Scholars and how to apply to be a scholar: http://www.kaplanedlfoundation.org

About the Kaplan Educational Foundation

The Kaplan Educational Foundation was founded by Kaplan, Inc., a global leader in education and career services. The Foundation provides high-potential, low-income students with academic and financial support, and leadership training to raise their expectations for success and open doors to opportunities that will change their lives and communities. For more information, please visit www.kaplanedfoundation.org.

About Kaplan, Inc:

Kaplan is a global educational services company that provides individuals, universities, and businesses with a diverse array of services, including higher and professional education, test preparation, language training, corporate and leadership training, and student recruitment, online enablement and other university support services. With operations in nearly 30 countries, Kaplan serves nearly 1.1 million students each year and has partnerships with 2,000-plus universities, colleges, and schools/school districts, and more than 4,000 businesses globally. Kaplan is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC). For more information, please visit www.kaplan.com.

Note to editors: Kaplan is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC)

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