AiLun Ku has always been inspired by community service. With an MPA in nonprofit management, she says she finally found a way to align her professional goals with a full-time job.
“I was working at admissions at New York University,” says Ku, “but was interested in shifting my career towards direct service and working with young people.”
Five years ago, she made the move from higher education to take a job as chief operating officer at the Opportunity Network. Based in New York, this nonprofit focuses on providing equal opportunities for low-income high school and college students. Their mission is rooted in the belief that all students can increase their potential to get into a good college and get ready for a productive career.
Founders: Jessica Pliska and Brian Weinstein
Year founded: 2003
Employees: 22
Where we’re based: WeWork Member based in New York
Moment of inspiration: “I’ve always been social and justice-driven,” says Ku. “Even at NYU, I was in admissions at the school of public service, so I was always involved in mission-driven work.”
Biggest hurdle: “We know the need is out there and that there is a greater need than what we can serve, but we’re trying not to grow too fast,” says Ku. “We have to be responsible about growth—if you grow too fast and don’t manage it well, your program quality might go down.”
How we want to change the world: “The organization is meant to level the playing field for low-income, high potential students,” says Ku. “We want to find those students and make sure they have the skills and knowledge to succeed and push them through.”