Wells Fargo’s partnership with BestPrep is built through consistency, leadership, and a shared belief in expanding opportunities for Minnesota students. The relationship began in 1977 when the company, then Northwestern National Bank, made its first donation and Jim Buckles joined the original board. That early commitment set the foundation for decades of involvement, strengthened through leaders like Carolyn Roby, whose support helped launch eMentors and the Technology Integration Workshop in 2003.
Wells Fargo Advisors later fueled the growth of The Stock Market Game™ with four major grants, allowing schools to participate at no cost. As BestPrep introduced new programs, Wells Fargo was at the forefront, joining Cloud Coach in 2017 and continuing to provide volunteers for mock interviews, classroom presentations, and student competitions. Board members including Dave Kasper, Tim Jordahl, and 2003 Humanitarian Award recipient Jim Campbell have played key roles in guiding the partnership forward and ensuring students receive meaningful career and financial literacy experiences.
In 2019, Wells Fargo provided a special $45,000 grant and served as a Platinum Sponsor of the BestPrep Educational Forum, further demonstrating its commitment to education. This year, the company’s dedication is recognized once again as Eric Forstrom, Executive Director of Customer Treatment Risk Program, is named Volunteer of the Year and Carly Baker, Senior Audit Manager of Market and Counterparty Risk Management, received the Board Member of Distinction award.
BestPrep has made a profound impact in both of their lives. Eric shares, “Working with BestPrep has been incredibly enriching. Seeing and hearing perspectives from young adults reminds me that each generation has its share of triumphs and challenges. Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of working and networking with (and learning from) professionals from several different industries.” Carly goes on to say, “My involvement with BestPrep through volunteering and Board service has influenced how I approach leadership and mentoring in my professional life; personally, it has deepened my commitment to helping create a better financial future for our community of students through education and outreach.” Carly continues by sharing the impact on Wells Fargo volunteers, “Through volunteering in BestPrep’s eMentors program, Wells Fargo employees serve as mentors to students on critical life and career skills. The partnership simultaneously enhances volunteers’ leadership and coaching abilities while deepening community impact.”
Together, Wells Fargo and BestPrep continue to build brighter futures for students across Minnesota.