The Annual Luncheon was held on Monday, May 12 where BestPrep recognized the students, teachers, and volunteers whose efforts were outstanding during the 2024-2025 school year.
Meet our top five award winners – Adia Vang, Sophia Ross, Charles R. Bradley Jr., Rashmi Vashisht, and Marc Olson!
Don Friborg Student of the Year – Adia Vang
Adia’s journey with BestPrep began at Minnesota Business Venture in 2023 and quickly grew as she returned as a Student Leader in 2024 and again as a volunteer at the Educational Forum and Annual Luncheon. Her experience with BestPrep has shaped her leadership, communication, and teamwork skills—and inspired her to pursue an accounting major at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
[Adia Vang (left) accepting her award from Janae Olinger, BestPrep’s VP of Educational Programs (right).]
Carpenter Educator of the Year – Sophia Ross
Sophia has enriched her students’ education through BestPrep’s programs for the past 15 years, starting with the Technology Integration Workshop and now incorporating the eMentors mentoring program, the Stock Market Game, and Financial Matters classroom speakers into her classes. Her innovative approach brings real-world relevance to business and financial literacy education, helping students build essential skills through meaningful connections with professionals.
[Sophia Ross (left) accepting her award from Janae Olinger, BestPrep’s VP of Educational Programs (right).]
Charles has been an incredible force for good at BestPrep for nearly 15 years, using his time, talent, and leadership to positively impact students and educators. As a dedicated Cloud Coach mentor and coordinator—leading the program five times—he’s guided youth in St. Paul with real-world insight and support, while also hosting job shadow experiences to help educators connect classroom learning to workforce needs.
[Charles R. Bradley Jr. (center), accepting award from Laida Bunzel (right) and Bob Kaitz, BestPrep’s President & CEO (left).]
Rashmi’s journey with BestPrep began more than 20 years ago with the Technology Integration Workshop, and her impact has only grown since. From integrating the eMentors program into her classroom to serving as a BestPrep Coordinator, she now continues her advocacy for career readiness as Assistant Principal at Highland Park Senior High. Thanks to her leadership, the Cloud Coach program is thriving at both Como Park Senior High and Highland Park Senior High, with over 300 ninth-graders currently participating at Highland—a testament to her dedication to student success and real-world learning.
[Photo of Rashmi Vashisht (left) accepting award from Marc Olson, BestPrep’s Board Chair (right).]
Marc’s journey with BestPrep spans 25 years, beginning as a volunteer classroom speaker in 1998 and evolving into key leadership roles including Treasurer, Vice Chair, and now Board Chair. During his time as Board Chair, he helped guide the organization through a CEO transition and the creation of a 3-year strategic plan, positioning BestPrep for long-term success. Marc remains actively involved by mentoring students and speaking on financial literacy and career readiness, and under his leadership, BestPrep now reaches nearly 35,000 students annually.
[Marc Olson (left) accepting award from Bob Kaitz (right).]