Holly McGuire: 3.6 Million Lives Touched and Counting

Holly McGuire is a name synonymous with dedication, inspiration, and groundbreaking contributions to the field of education. As the CEO of THINK Together, one of the nation's largest providers of after-school and summer programs, she has dedicated her career to providing enriching opportunities for students from underrepresented communities.

Under McGuire's leadership, THINK Together has expanded its reach to serve over 260,000 students annually, delivering high-quality programs that foster academic achievement, social-emotional development, and essential life skills. Through her unwavering commitment to educational equity, McGuire has touched the lives of over 3.6 million students, empowering them to reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.

Early Life and Education

Holly McGuire's passion for education was ignited during her childhood in a working-class community in Massachusetts. Her parents instilled in her the value of hard work and the transformative power of knowledge. Inspired by their example, she pursued a career in teaching, earning a bachelor's degree in education from the University of California, Berkeley.

Community Involvement and Early Career

Before joining THINK Together, McGuire dedicated several years to community service and grassroots activism. She worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children and families in underserved communities, advocating for educational opportunities, healthcare access, and affordable housing.

Recognizing the critical need for comprehensive after-school programs, McGuire joined THINK Together in 1998. She quickly rose through the ranks, driven by her unwavering belief in the power of providing enriching experiences to students who need it most.

Leadership at THINK Together

As CEO of THINK Together, McGuire has led the organization through a period of unprecedented growth and innovation. Under her guidance, THINK Together has developed a robust suite of programs that address the diverse needs of students from all backgrounds.

TH!NK Together programs foster:

• Academic Enrichment
• Social-Emotional Learning
• Leadership Development
• College and Career Success
• Health and Wellness

Through its innovative approach and commitment to excellence, THINK Together has earned a reputation as a national leader in the field of education, attracting recognition from organizations such as the White House, the National Dropout Prevention Center, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Innovations and Recognition

McGuire's leadership has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation. She has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge programs and partnerships to meet the evolving needs of students and the community.

One notable innovation is the THINK Together Homework Helpline, a free, 24/7 online tutoring service that supports students with academic assistance. The helpline has provided over 2 million hours of support, empowering students to overcome academic challenges and succeed in school.

McGuire's exceptional leadership has earned her numerous accolades and awards, including:

• Ashoka Fellow (2003)
• California AfterSchool Network Champion for Children Award (2008)
• National Council of La Raza Viva Leadership Award (2016)
• Forum for Executive Women Top 100 Women in California (2021)

Legacy and Impact

Holly McGuire's legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. Her unwavering commitment to educational equity has transformed the lives of millions of students, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach their full potential.

The data speaks volumes about the impact THINK Together programs have had on students. According to an independent evaluation conducted by the RAND Corporation:

• THINK Together students are 20% more likely to graduate from high school than their peers.
• THINK Together students score significantly higher on standardized tests than non-participants.
• THINK Together students exhibit stronger social-emotional skills and reduce risky behaviors.
• THINK Together programs lead to increased college enrollment and persistence rates.

These figures are a testament to the organization's unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, accessible programming that supports the academic and personal growth of every student.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

In her years of experience, McGuire has identified common mistakes that organizations and individuals can make when seeking to provide educational opportunities to underserved communities. These include:

• Lack of Cultural Sensitivity: Failing to understand and respect the cultural backgrounds of students and families can lead to ineffective communication and disengagement.
• Insufficient Funding: Inadequate funding can hinder program quality, staff compensation, and infrastructural support.
• Lack of Collaboration: Failing to partner with community organizations, schools, and other stakeholders can limit the reach and effectiveness of programs.
• Absence of Teacher Training: Unqualified or inadequately trained teachers can compromise the educational experience for students.
• Lack of Long-Term Support: Providing short-term or inconsistent support can limit the effectiveness of programs and undermine student progress.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, organizations can create more effective and sustainable programs that truly meet the needs of underserved communities.

Holly McGuire: Inspiring Future Generations

Holly McGuire is an inspirational leader whose unwavering dedication to educational equity has made a profound impact on the lives of millions of students. As she continues to guide THINK Together towards its mission of empowering every child to reach their full potential, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of educators and advocates.