Evanston Cradle to Career appoints new Executive Director Blake Noel

February 9, 2023 | For Immediate Release

Evanston, IL- After an extensive national search, Evanston Cradle to Career (EC2C) has named Blake Noel as the network’s new Executive Director. Evanston Cradle to Career, a collective impact partnership, unites the institutions and residents of the Evanston community as it works to ensure that its systems and institutions are equitable and just. EC2C works towards an Evanston that empowers every child, youth, young adult, and their families to thrive and achieve their desired potential.  

Noel’s background in education, combined with a deep passion for promoting community-based solutions will help to further advance the mission of the collaborative network.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Blake as the new Executive Director of Evanston Cradle to Career,” says Sol Anderson, President of the Evanston Community Foundation and fiscal sponsor of EC2C. “He will bring tremendous experience, great enthusiasm, strong communication skills and a fresh perspective to the collective.” 

Noel officially assumed the role on Monday, February 6, in which he will spearhead all aspects of EC2C operations, manage outcomes through the implementation of short- and long-term work plans, lead communications, and facilitate cross-sector partnerships.   

I am committed to creating opportunity in practical ways, from program design to partnerships and collaboration,” says Noel. “ I believe Evanston can be a model for America, a vision of inclusion and progress in a diverse society, and I am honored to serve as the Executive Director to make it happen.” 

Dr. Blake Noel brings a wealth of non-profit experience and expertise to Evanston Cradle to Career. In 2020, he helped launch Reach University, the first undergraduate teaching apprenticeship in America. While there he led growth to 5 states, established 100 partnerships with school systems, and recruited over 500 students. Noel, a former high school teacher, and nonprofit program officer, earned a PhD from the University of Michigan, an EdM from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, a MAT from National-Louis University, and a BS from the university of Wisconsin. 

 About the Community Foundation
Helping Evanston thrive as a vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community, the Evanston Community Foundation builds, connects, and distributes resources and knowledge through local organizations for the common good.

 

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