Welcome New Staff
We’re delighted to welcome two new staff members to the LINK team—Sarah Schollmeyer, Director, Outreach & Enrollment, and Tatyana Mcdade, Manager, Marketing & Communications—as well as Valencia Kells and Kulsoom Khan, Scholar Engagement & Marketing Interns, who will be with us for the summer.
Sarah Schollmeyer, Director, Outreach & Enrollment:
Sarah’s favorite thing about working in education is teaching students about what college can do for them. Her goal is to empower LINK’s prospective Scholars and offer them an opportunity to discover their passion through our programming. “Our Scholars are our future,” she said, “so it is a privilege to have a hand in supporting their journey to college.” As a lifelong camp counselor, Sarah brings a lot of pep to her information sessions, workshops, and other recruitment events. She is inspired by LINK’s dedication to holistic student success, from high school to college and beyond, and she is thrilled to join such an impactful organization in the heart of Chicago.
Tatyana Mcdade, Manager, Marketing & Communications:
Taty is passionate about using storytelling and creative strategy to connect people with opportunities, resources, and community. Her interest in this work stems from a long-standing desire to help others access the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to reach their potential. While she originally planned to pursue a career in education, she discovered that storytelling and creative work offered another way to create impact beyond the classroom. Today, her work is driven by a commitment to expanding opportunity, amplifying underrepresented voices, and creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. “I am excited to join LINK and help elevate the stories of Scholars, alumni, and supporters while showcasing the transformative impact of the organization’s work,” she said. “What excites me most about LINK is its commitment to expanding access to educational opportunities and investing in young people as they pursue their goals, dreams, and futures.”
Valencia Kells, Scholar Engagement & Marketing Intern:
Valencia loves creativity and storytelling, especially when it comes to bringing ideas to life and creating meaningful experiences. Marketing wasn’t always her plan, but she naturally found her way into it through planning special moments for her loved ones and her own events, turning Pinterest boards into real life experience. “I really like LINK because it focuses on providing guidance, support, and real opportunities for growth,” she said, “especially for students transitioning into college and early career spaces. I’m excited to learn, grow, and keep building on my passion for creating experiences that connect with people in a real way.”
Kulsoom Khan, Scholar Engagement & Marketing Intern:
Kulsoom is interested in how organizations operate behind the scenes, from the systems and processes that keep them running to the ways people work together to achieve shared goals. Through this internship, she hopes to gain professional experience, learn from her mentors, and contribute to an organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for students. “I look forward to making a positive impact,” she said, “while also continuing to build on my own skills.”
To Sarah, Tatyana, Valencia, and Kulsoom, we say, “Welcome to the LINK team!” We’re excited about your impact on our mission to help our Scholars to, through, and beyond college!
