Tricia Wilkinson2016 Rising Alumni

Tricia Wilkinson photo

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.

Employer

Academic Coordinator, University of Minnesota - TRIO Upward Bound

CEHD Degree

B.A., Psychology, 2004
M.Ed., Youth Development and Leadership, 2013

What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

  • Committee Chair - Educational Opportunity Association (EOA) Annual Regional Conference-2015
  • Committee Chair - Minnesota TRIO Legislation and Education Committee, 2012-2015
  • Committee Chair - EOA Scholarship committee, 2013, 2014
  • Emerging Leaders Institute graduate, 2013

Who has inspired you the most during your career?

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.

What honors and awards have you received for your hard work?

  • CEHD Community Outreach Award, 2015
  • A Breath of Hope volunteer of the Month - January, 2016

Are you involved in any volunteer activities?

I volunteer with A Breath of Hope Lung Foundation as an Ambassador. I also volunteer with Minnesota TRIO Association and Education Opportunity Association (EOA).

What was the impact/benefit of your educational experience in CEHD?

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.

What’s a fun fact about you?

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!