In this insightful interview, Dr. Angel Perez, CEO of NACAC, shares his personal journey from the South Bronx to leading higher education access initiatives. He discusses urgent gaps in college preparation, the role of community-based organizations, and innovative strategies to support students and professionals in the field.

• (00:00:00) - The Blueprint: Preparing Students for College and Career Success
• (00:01:42) - Bob Burling on His Path to College
• (00:04:30) - Brilliant Pathways: The Need for College
• (00:06:29) - What Do You See as the Most urgent gaps in preparing students for
• (00:10:09) - How Do We Support Admissions Professionals?
• (00:16:23) - Community Based Organizations Help Colleges Open the Pipeline
• (00:20:38) - What would a strong partnership with a K through 12 system look like
• (00:23:09) - Agents of Opportunity: The Need for Human Skills
• (00:27:55) - Bookmark: The Hottest Thing on Campus
• (00:29:06) - The Blueprint: The Hottest Seat on Campus

In this episode, Manny Tejeda interviews Gregory Herman, a former CFES scholar, who shares his journey from high school to becoming a dean at a Harlem elementary school. Greg discusses the challenges he faced during his education, the pivotal role of CFES in his college preparation, and the importance of mentorship and representation in education. He emphasizes the need for more black male educators and the impact they can have on students, particularly young black boys. The conversation highlights the significance of community support and innovative approaches in education.

• (00:00:00) - The Blueprint
• (00:01:32) - Gregory Roberts on CFES and His College Experience
• (00:05:18) - Post-Post-Bachelor's Advice
• (00:06:23) - In the Elevator With CFES Educators
• (00:08:44) - An Impact of African American Educators
• (00:11:57) - Black Educators' Need for Professional Networks
• (00:17:36) - Mentorship programs for black men
• (00:18:23) - Mentorship for Black Men in Education

In this episode, Manny Tejeda and Greg Muccio discuss the critical importance of essential skills in the evolving job market. They explore the challenges students face in developing these skills, the significance of networking, and practical strategies for building and showcasing essential skills. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, adaptability, and resilience, as well as the role of parents and educators in fostering these skills in students.

• (00:00:00) - The Blueprint: Preparing Students for the Future
• (00:01:31) - The Blueprint
• (00:02:13) - Essential Skills in our Future
• (00:04:03) - Exploring Your Career Pathway
• (00:07:53) - What Does the Skills Survey Say About Jobs
• (00:10:08) - Build and showcase the Essential Skills
• (00:12:25) - The Durable Skills of Leadership
• (00:18:22) - Employment Network: Communication Skills
• (00:20:21) - Interviewing Students: Clear Path