Elevate+ Welcomes Julie Keenan to Board of Trustees
Elevate to Even+ • September 28, 2024

Elevate to Even Plus (Elevate+), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for underserved students through paid summer internships and enrichment programs, proudly announces the appointment of Julie Keenan to its Board of Trustees.


Julie Keenan brings over two decades of experience in operations, change management, and strategic leadership in both the public and nonprofit sectors. Her extensive background includes serving as Chief Operating Officer for the NJ Pandemic Relief Fund, Executive Director of the Schumann Fund for New Jersey, and consulting for organizations such as the City of New York’s Administration for Children’s Services and the CITI Program. Throughout her career, Julie has demonstrated a deep commitment to causes that align closely with Elevate+'s mission of educational equity and empowerment.


In her role as trustee, Julie will leverage her strategic insights and leadership experience to help guide Elevate+ as it continues to expand its reach, ensuring that more students from underrepresented communities have access to transformative summer work opportunities.

A woman wearing a blue shirt and a gold necklace smiles for the camera

“We are thrilled to welcome Julie Keenan to the Elevate+ Board of Trustees,” said Andrew Walker, Founding Executive Director of Elevate+. “Julie’s expertise in strategic operations and her dedication to social causes will be invaluable as we work to scale our programs and deepen our impact. Her experience in both the public and nonprofit sectors brings a unique perspective that will help us navigate the challenges ahead and continue driving forward our mission.”


Julie echoed her excitement about joining the Elevate+ board. “I’m honored to join the Board of Trustees at Elevate+,” said Julie Keenan. “I’ve been impressed by the work that Andrew and his team have done since the formation of Elevate+ to uplift underserved communities by providing students with the tools and resources they need to succeed. I’m eager to contribute my experience in both operations and philanthropy to help advance Elevate+’s mission and support its continued growth.”


Julie holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, cum laude, from Duke University and an MBA from Stanford University. Her leadership roles have spanned various sectors, including education, environmental protection, and public policy. Julie also currently serves on the boards of TEAM Academy (KIPP) in Newark and the Bald Head Island Conservancy.


With this new appointment, Elevate+ continues to strengthen its leadership and commitment to fostering economic equity for all students.

By Dr. Marilú Marcillo August 17, 2026
By Elevate+ Board Member Marilú Marcillo
By Carolyn Parelli August 11, 2026
How Elevate+ Turns Workplace Experience into Career Readiness
By Aguie Barrantes August 5, 2026
An Intern's Perspective on Professional and Personal Growth
By Aguie Barrantes July 8, 2026
Walking into a networking event alone is not exactly comfortable. I didn't know anyone, and I wasn't sure I belonged there. But somewhere between the first conversation and the second, that feeling changed. This summer, as the Marketing & Communications Intern at Elevate+ , I've learned that internships are about much more than completing projects. Managing and developing the Intern Spotlight posts, creating social media content, and building a content calendar and other marketing materials, including this blog post, have strengthened my organization, creativity, and communication skills. My biggest takeaway has been that building a personal brand starts before anyone is watching . Outside of Elevate+, one of my professors from Seton Hall introduced me to the opportunity to attend a two-day networking event at Next League. While I was nervous at first, I reminded myself that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone . Connecting with students and professionals across the sports industry showed there isn't one path to success. Alongside Elevate+, I’ve also balanced two other part-time jobs with FC Motown and Momento. Whether it’s working long hours in the summer heat or adjusting to unexpected changes during a live event, I’ve learned that success comes from being adaptable and thinking on the fly. These experiences have shown me that the most valuable growth happens when you’re willing to step up and show up , regardless of the circumstances. Looking back on the first half of the summer, I’ve realized that my biggest growth hasn't come from checking projects off a list. It's come from putting myself in unfamiliar situations, asking questions, and embracing opportunities that once felt intimidating . As I head into the second half of the summer, my goal is to be more intentional about following up with the professionals I meet. I've had the opportunity to connect with many people, but I want those conversations to turn into meaningful, lasting relationships. Showing up is only the first step; following up is what makes a connection memorable .
By Andrew Walker May 20, 2026
Newark, NJ native and Emory University graduate returns to Elevate+ after two prior internships and continued leadership with the organization’s Role Model Series
By Andrew Walker May 19, 2026
It's All Come Together!
By Andrew Walker April 14, 2026
What the Current Anti-DEI Climate Means for Elevate+ and the Nonprofit Sector
By Andrew Walker March 3, 2026
How MEND and Elevate+ Are Building Capacity and Developing Professionals Together
By Andrew Walker February 27, 2026
Handoff Wins Community Impact Award for Elevate+ Fundraiser
By Andrew Walker February 25, 2026
Elevate to Even Plus (Elevate+) is proud to announce the election of Jeff Kaufman to its Board of Trustees.