Staff

Upward Bound Director

Kerby Plante

What a journey.  After nearly six years, I'm still here.  I have greatly benefitted from meeting all the Upward Bound alums and staff and look forward to meeting new students as they make their trek towards their dream.  Feel free to call me at 320-363-5351."

Upward Bound Program Assistant

Sue Weitz

This part-time position kind of fell into my lap, and I thought it would be a great way to get back into the work force after not being part of it for 20 years. Upward Bound is a very worthwhile program with which to be associated, and I strongly believe in promoting and supporting education at any level. The staff and students that I have met have been an added benefit and have made this job a lot of fun and very interesting. As a graduate of the College of Saint Benedict, I am really happy to be back on this campus - it's a wonderful environment."

Upward Bound Program Advisors

Jennifer Whitehead

Welcome to Upward Bound!  It's a great place to meet new people, enjoy new experiences, and most importantly, prepare for college!  I've been here for three years.  Prior to working with Upward Bound I was an English and Speech teacher at both the junior high and high school levels.  I look forward to working with students and helping them to set goals and achieve their dreams.  Please feel free to contact me at 363-5351.

Shelley Gemza

 Hi! My name is Shelley Gemza and I am the newest staff on board at Upward Bound! I began this past fall and have enjoyed the opportunity to meet and work with the students this year. I work part time at Apollo and Willmar High Schools. Previous to joining St.Ben's, I worked for nearly twelve years at Educational Opportunity Center, a service providing college exploration and financial aid assistance to adults at Minneapolis Community and Technical College. I graduated from the University of Minnesota-Morris with a Bachelors degree in Sociology6 and Philosophy. I now live with my two children in Sauk Centre where we enjoy living by the lake and the pleasures of small town life. We love to travel and planning a trip to New York this summer. During my down time,  I enjoy jogging, swimming, reading, and going to the movies with friends. I anticipate welcoming new students into our program in the fall and reconnecting with returning students after summer break. See you then!

Staff/Teacher Survey Summer 2008:

Teachers:

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Staff:

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