NAPLES, — The Immokalee Foundation’s innovative Career Pathways program is one of only eight nationwide programs recognized by Excelencia in Education as “Programs to Watch” in 2023.

Career Pathways is a comprehensive educational approach that breaks new ground in preparing students for professional careers that lead to financial independence. Desirable careers don’t always require a college degree. Through extensive research and analysis, the Foundation identified four pathways that lead to well-paying jobs in high demand in Southwest Florida. Pathways include Business Management & Entrepreneurship, Education & Human Services, Engineering & Construction Management and Healthcare.

Excelencia in Education received 103 submissions for Examples of Excelencia from 20 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. In support of such great work serving Latino students, Excelencia also recognizes a specific group of innovative and/or up-and-coming programs as “Programs to Watch.”

Over 85% of the students supported by The Immokalee Foundation identify as Hispanic or Latino.

“Though The Immokalee Foundation was established over 32 years ago, our Career Pathways Program is relatively young, having launched in 2019,” said Noemi Y. Perez, President and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation. “However, the program’s impact on our students’ educational process was immediate and extraordinary. We are honored to be included on the same list with such impressive innovators in education as well as for our growing impact on the Immokalee Community.”

About The Immokalee Foundation: For more than 32 years, The Immokalee Foundation has been preparing the next generation of leaders through a 100% focus on education, career readiness, and professional development for students in Immokalee—from kindergarten through postsecondary education. The Foundation provides new pathways to success and financial independence through robust programming that prepares students for well-paying, in-demand professional careers. To learn more about The Immokalee Foundation, become a mentor, signature events, volunteer as a career panel speaker or host, donate, or include the Foundation in your estate plans, please call 239-430-9122 or visit immokaleefoundation.org.

About Excelencia in Education: Excelencia in Education accelerates Latino student success in higher education by promoting Latino student achievement, conducting analysis to inform educational policies, and advancing institutional practices while collaborating with those committed and ready to meet the mission. Launched in 2004 in the nation’s capital, Excelencia has established a network of results-oriented educators and policymakers to address the U.S. economy’s needs for a highly educated workforce and engaged civic leaders. For more information, visit: EdExcelencia.org