Meet the Family: Linda
“Linda leads by example, staying calm and thoughtful when things don’t go as planned, turning problems into opportunities, and brilliantly matching people’s strengths to the organization’s needs. She is fearless in asking for support from our donors to benefit students. Her deep empathy and generous spirit make her an inspiration and a joy to know.”
“A few people have an incredible impact on you, your career, and your life. Linda is one of those people for me. She embodies the strength, kindness, passion, and joy that inspires me to do and be better every day.”
“As Executive Director, Linda has cultivated a warm and welcoming environment. Regardless of how busy she is, Linda consistently gives volunteers wholehearted appreciation and expresses our key role in supporting students alongside staff, board members, and donors. Thank you, Linda, for your appreciation of volunteers and your impressive work leading the organization more broadly!”
Today's Meet the Family Friday is an extra special one as we celebrate the 4-year anniversary of our executive director and inspiring, tenacious, and nurturing leader Dr. Linda Prieto.🥳🎉
Since Linda joined Upward Scholars as ED, she has exponentially increased our fundraising efforts, grown the staff from one full-time employee to six, and nurtured the Upward Scholars family. In addition to being a well-respected executive director, Linda is an outstanding mentor, friend, mother, sister, daughter, and person.
We asked some of the Upward Scholars family members to share how Linda has impacted or inspired them, and we all agree that she is simply like no other.
Happy 4-year anniversary, Linda! We are infinitely grateful for your incredible leadership and passion at Upward Scholars. We could not have moved up the way we have without you. ¡Gracias! 🥰🫶🏼
“Linda honors her name; she is the loveliest person I know. Thank you, Linda, for believing in me and allowing me to be part of this family. You are an inspiration, an example, and a valuable jewel for the Upward Scholars family.”
“Linda gave me the strength I needed to develop and increase my self-confidence and gave me the opportunity to work at Upward Scholars, where I discovered my real passion. She is my friend, mentor, and direct supervisor, and beyond that, Linda is an excellent professional role model.”
“For the past four years, Linda has fearlessly led Upward Scholars while keeping the growing needs of our students at the center. Despite the odds, her community-driven approach ensured they stayed on track during the pandemic, and her strategic vision guarantees continued impact across the Bay Area. We are fortunate to have an authentic leader like Linda, actively serving as both an inspiration for our students and the community at large.”
“Linda is an empathetic person. She has given me academic support and lots of encouragement in the most difficult moments of my life. She encourages me to move forward with my goals and keep going. Linda is “la mamá de los pollitos,” paving the path so one day all of the Upward Scholars students will make our dreams come true.”