Tricia Wilkinson has a master’s in youth development leadership from the School of Social Work, and works as an Academic Coordinator with TRIO Upward Bound. Tricia has been a leader in organizing professional development opportunities for TRIO professionals across the region. She organized a three day conference and developed an online training for staff, and is also developing a statewide leadership program for the Minnesota TRIO Association – all on her own time. In addition, she volunteers as an ambassador for A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation. Tricia was recognized last year with the CEHD Community Outreach Award.
Academic Coordinator, University of Minnesota - TRIO Upward Bound
B.A., Psychology, 2004
M.Ed., Youth Development and Leadership, 2013
Students and the youth I work with each year keep me inspired to work in this field. Each individual is unique and has different strengths and needs. I am constantly learning more about education and youth work as I continue to work with young people.
I volunteer with A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation as an Ambassador. I also volunteer with Minnesota TRIO Association and Education Opportunity Association (EOA).
I learned a lot about myself, my work, education, youth work and others during my time in undergrad and graduate program. Mostly, during my graduate work, I learned about myself and the work I currently do with a new perspective. This was an impact because it gave me the confidence to take on new challenges, train others and discover more of my voice in this field.
I love to bake! I discovered baking was a stress reliever for me during grad school. I would bake desserts each week and bring them to work for my colleagues and my staff. Three years later, I am now getting requests and orders from colleagues, staff and students!