BestPrep

Schulze School of Entrepreneurship – BestPrep Featured Partner

Publish on May 27, 2025 Categories -

When Laura Dunham joined the University of St. Thomas in 2017 as the Associate Dean of the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship, Bob Kaitz saw an exciting opportunity. He reached out to explore a potential partnership between St. Thomas and BestPrep’s Minnesota Business Venture (MBV), a successful summer program that helps high school students build skills in business, career development, and financial literacy. Laura was enthusiastic from the start, and by 2019, MBV found a new home at the University of St. Thomas.

[Jessica Cooley, now Executive Director at the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship, speaking to students at MBV.]

The program has only grown since then. In 2023, a second session was added, and enrollment continues to climb. Thanks to the incredible faculty, dedicated staff, and top-notch facilities at St. Thomas, MBV has truly thrived.

The Schulze School and BestPrep partnership has been a perfect match with the organizations’ missions being closely aligned – both being deeply committed to empowering the next generation of leaders.

A heartfelt thank-you to the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship for their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and career exploration.

Kyra Shah – The Best Reward

Publish on May 23, 2025 Categories -

Kyra Shah, a freshman studying finance at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, has been involved with BestPrep for the past three years. She’s volunteered twice as a student leader at Minnesota Business Venture (MBV), served as a panelist at the 2024 Educational Forum, and was most recently BestPrep’s Communications and Events Intern.

Reflecting on her time with BestPrep, Kyra shares, “BestPrep changed my life. That might sound dramatic, but it’s true. MBV opened my eyes to the business world and helped me figure out what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Now pursuing a major in finance, Kyra is particularly drawn to wealth management and consulting—two career paths she hadn’t known existed until her first summer as a camper at MBV.

“Being a CEO for the last two summers has been priceless,” Kyra says. “MBV is an incubator for personal growth. I’ve grown as a leader, a public speaker, and a person. And getting to help others experience the magic of MBV has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

[Kyra (far right) at MBV preparing her group for mock interviews.]

Kyra attributes her passion for volunteering to the personal growth she sees in her campers. “The best reward isn’t receiving the highest loan offer at the end of camp—it’s seeing campers grow, develop financial skills they’ll use for life, and genuinely enjoy the experience.”

One especially impactful moment for Kyra came during the Educational Forum where she met Deb Schoneman, President at Piper Sandler and BestPrep board member. Kyra shares, “She told me, ‘Growth happens outside of your comfort zone,’ and I carry that with me through whatever challenges I encounter. I try to pass that lesson on to the campers—by helping them push past their comfort zones and self-limiting beliefs and start imagining possibilities they never thought were within reach.”

[Kyra Shah at the 2024 Educational Forum as a student panelist.]

Kyra expresses deep gratitude to BestPrep’s supporters, stating, “Minnesota Business Venture has changed my life and the lives of so many others. What you’re doing is powerful and inspiring. You’re helping to remove the financial barriers to education and making it possible for students to gain financial literacy skills. You’re not just funding a program—you’re changing futures.”

Celebrating BestPrep’s Outstanding Honorees

Publish on May 23, 2025 Categories -

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).]

Bunzel Volunteer of the Year – Charles R. Bradley Jr

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).]

Board Member of Distinction – Rashmi Vashisht

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).]

Leader of Vision – Marc Olson

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).]

We were honored to celebrate an additional 42 award winners at the event. View the full list of our award winners here.

Stock Market Summer – No-Cost Fun for Everyone

Publish on May 22, 2025 Categories -

The Stock Market Game

Looking for a fun, educational way to stay sharp this summer? The Stock Market Game Summer Session is now open for registration, and it’s not just for students in classrooms!

Whether you’re a curious teen, a parent seeking enriching activities, or someone who’s new to investing, this is your chance to dive into the world of stocks, bonds, and personal finance in a risk-free, virtual environment with 1 on 1 personal support. The best part? It’s open to everyone. There are no age restrictions and you don’t need to be part of a school or group; just sign up and start investing!

Each participant manages a $100,000 virtual portfolio, making real-time investment decisions using live market data. This self-paced simulation is engaging, educational, and designed to build financial literacy, critical thinking, and confidence.

To enhance this experience, BestPrep is hosting Stock Market Summer, a no-cost weekly livestream on YouTube every Tuesday afternoon at 3PM Central. These optional sessions will feature mini-lessons, guest speakers, and a live Q&A to help participants of all ages make the most of the game. Whether you tune in or play on your own, Stock Market Summer is a perfect opportunity to learn something new, challenge yourself, and have some financial fun.

You can register today at smg.stockmarketgame.org

St. Paul Public Schools – The Path Ahead

Publish on April 25, 2025 Categories -

BestPrep continues to strengthen its partnership with the St. Paul School District, providing students with educational opportunities for more than 40 years.

Throughout the 2024–25 school year, BestPrep programs have reached hundreds of St. Paul students, strengthening their financial literacy skills and expanding their vision for the future. This year 27 classrooms participated in at least one BestPrep program. Many educators bring BestPrep’s programs back year after year, having seen the lasting impact and real-world relevance they bring to their students.

[Student from Central High School meeting their mentor from 3M.]

Cloud Coach continues to be a standout program across several St. Paul high schools, pairing ninth-grade students with local professional mentors to explore their futures and work to achieve their goals. eMentors and Classroom Plus are also very popular, connecting students with business professionals who teach about relevant career skills such as career paths, resume building, interviewing and business etiquette. Financial Matters remains a core resource for teachers integrating personal finance education, while Minnesota Business Venture and the Stock Market Game offer immersive learning beyond the school day.

Educators across the district have seen the impact these programs have made on students. Rashmi Vashisht, a longtime Saint Paul educator and BestPrep board nember shared, “My first involvement with BestPrep was 20 years ago as a teacher participating in the Technology Integration Workshop. Since then, I’ve introduced eMentors into my classes, facilitated Cloud Coach at both Como Park Senior and Highland Park Senior High, and supported teachers and students alike in bringing career readiness to life.”

[Rashmi speaking to students at a Cloud Summit event.]

BestPrep is encouraged by the meaningful impact its programs have had within the St. Paul Public School District. With ongoing collaboration from educators and volunteers, the path ahead for St. Paul students looks exceptionally bright.

Best Buy – BestPrep Featured Partner

Publish on April 25, 2025 Categories -

For more than 25 years, Best Buy  has worked side-by-side with BestPrep to prepare students with business, career and financial literacy skills that lay the foundation for future success. In the early days of the partnership, Best Buy volunteers presented in high school classrooms and during the summer at BestPrep’s Minnesota Business Venture program. They have consistently provided leadership through board member representation and committee participation.   

In recent years Best Buy employees have volunteered as mock interviewers, Minnesota Business Venture business plan judges and Student Spotlight essay competition judges for the BestPrep Educational Forum. In 2024, Best Buy became a Cloud Coach partner, co-sponsoring two ninth grade classes in St. Paul, Humboldt High School and Highland Park Senior High. Hundreds of volunteers have now participated. According to one Best Buy mentor, “I was reminded of how hard it is to be a ninth grader and all the emotional challenges they face. It made me even more grateful for making my way through it and landing where I am today. I can’t take that for granted.”

[Photo of Jill Giefer (right) and her mentee (left) from Humboldt High School.]

In 2019, BestPrep was honored to have Hubert Joly, then-Chairman of Best Buy, join the BestPrep Educational Forum in an onstage discussion with keynote speaker Thomas Friedman.

Jill Giefer, Head of Enterprise Research and Experience Measurement at Best Buy and BestPrep board member, shared, “BestPrep offers our employees an opportunity to interact with tomorrow’s workforce in a meaningful way not only for each student but for our volunteers. We are grateful for their programming.”

Congratulations to this month’s featured partner, Best Buy, for their investment of time, money, and commitment to supporting Minnesota students.

BestPrep Announces Jason Sanders as President & CEO

Publish on April 23, 2025 Categories -

News

Sanders succeeds Bob Kaitz who is retiring after 50 years of service

BROOKLYN PARK, Minn., April 23, 2025 — Today, BestPrep announced Jason Sanders as the new President & Chief Executive Officer of the Minnesota-based education nonprofit organization, effective April 21.

Sanders comes to BestPrep from the Dodge Nature Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he served as Executive Director since February 2010, and held other roles since June 2003. During his time with the Dodge Nature Center, Sanders took on responsibilities including stakeholder engagement, development, strategic planning, program development, and operational management.

“I could not be more excited to join the BestPrep team and lead the organization into its next chapter,” said Sanders. “I am driven to fulfill the mission of preparing students to be career focused and financially capable, as well as grow the reach of our fantastic programming. Bob Kaitz has left an incredible legacy and I look forward to carrying that torch.”

Prior to the Dodge Nature Center, Sanders worked at DARTS, a Dakota County-based nonprofit with the vision to provide equitable solutions that reflect diverse community needs and create a fulfilling aging journey. Sanders has a bachelor’s degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato. He also completed the Mini MBA in nonprofit management and Institute for Executive Director Leadership program at the University of St. Thomas (St. Paul).

The transition marks a historic moment for the organization as it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026. Since its founding in 1976, BestPrep has impacted more than 1.8 million Minnesota students through partnerships with educators, volunteers, and the business community.

“Jason has deep experience in nonprofit leadership and a palpable passion for education which will serve him well as the new leader of BestPrep,” said Bob Kaitz, outgoing BestPrep President & CEO. “As we approach the 50th anniversary of our organization, I know Jason is the perfect person to build on the strong foundation to propel us into the future.”

Kaitz announced his retirement in February 2025, after nearly 50 years of guiding and growing the organization. Sanders’ hiring comes after an extensive national search. Kaitz will work closely with Sanders over the next three months to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition.

BestPrep remains steadfast in its focus on providing Minnesota students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in school, work, and life. The leadership transition opens the door to further innovation, expanded programming, and deeper engagement with volunteers and partners across the state.

[Jason Sanders (left) and Bob Kaitz (right).]

About BestPrep

BestPrep is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization that provides educational programs to students in grades 4-12, with the mission of preparing students with business, career, and financial literacy skills through hands-on experiences that inspire success in work and life. BestPrep works with companies to bridge the gap between classroom learning and skills utilized in the workplace. Since its inception in 1976, BestPrep has served more than 1.8 million Minnesota students, empowering them with tools and resources to become college-prepared, work-ready, and career-bound. BestPrep offers six programs that are approved by the Minnesota Academic League Council as high-quality programs that help students discover and develop their interests, passions, and talents to reach new heights in learning.

Empowering Students with Financial Literacy

Publish on March 24, 2025 Categories -

Anne Barnes, AVID Coordinator for Roseville Area High School and Fairview Alternative High School, enhances her students’ educational experiences by incorporating BestPrep’s Financial Matters into her classroom, a program that empowers students to make informed and confident financial decisions.

As Anne prepares her students for life beyond high school, she sees firsthand how financial literacy programs transform students’ perspectives on money and notes that many students worry about affording college.

She highlights the program’s “Paying for College” presentation as a particularly impactful session that eases her students worries, saying, “it’s helpful to know what resources are available and how they can be put together to cover the costs.”

Anne continually emphasizes how crucial financial literacy is for students and believes programs, like BestPrep’s Financial Matters, helps set them up for success. It allows them to plan their finances post-graduation, understand financial aid and FAFSA, and brings awareness to all the costs involved in attending college.

She encourages fellow educators to bring in financial experts, claiming, “it’s helpful when outside financial speakers talk to students about the different options students have for paying for college.”

Here’s to Anne for shaping financially responsible students.