Nearly 500 BestPrep supporters — teachers, students, volunteers and donors — came together on May 19 to celebrate the accomplishments of our educators and volunteers at the 39th Annual Luncheon. Kim Nelson, Senior Vice President of External Relations at General Mills, gave an engaging presentation examining our ever-changing global economy and how these changes affect the way we educate and inspire students to be successful leaders.
Each year, BestPrep selects one of our 4,200 volunteers to receive the Bunzel Volunteer of the Year Award. This year, BestPrep could not pick just one individual. Co-winners from UnitedHealth Group, Kate Stephany and Gretchen Korf, were selected to receive this top award.
Together, Korf and Stephany have created one of the strongest corporate volunteer efforts in Minnesota. Because of their efforts, more than 700 volunteers from UnitedHealth Group participated this past year in BestPrep’s eMentors program. eMentors is a weekly email exchange between mentor and student to prepare them for college, work and career. More than 35 classrooms and 744 students participated during the 2014-2015 school year.
The Bunzel Volunteer of the year award commemorates the efforts of Eric Bunzel, retired President of Cargill Ferrous International. Since its inception, the award has been presented to more than 20 individuals whose volunteer efforts and commitment to the students of Minnesota have been exemplary.
We would like to thank all who attended our 39th Annual Luncheon and invite you to visit BestPrep’s Facebook Page to see photos from the event. We continue to be grateful for all those who participate in our programs and graciously choose to donate or share their time and talents with the young people of our communities.