About Us

FAQ

What is Steppingstone’s role in NPEA?

NPEA is an initiative of The Steppingstone Foundation (TSF), but does not promote the Steppingstone service model or any specific program structure. TSF is excited and honored to play a facilitating role in the implementation of NPEA and is committed to securing the necessary start-up funding to ensure long-term success and sustainability so NPEA can effectively serve its members for many years to come.

Why join NPEA? What’s in it for my organization?

The primary benefit to membership is access to and participation in a learning community of peers. NPEA members will be able to participate in professional development opportunities, such as an annual conference designed specifically for members. In addition, NPEA members will receive access to resources such as a member list-serve, a monthly e-newsletter (industry-related articles, events and conferences, announcements, and job postings), and a member website with educational access information and resources. We will also offer members access to relevant industry data and research. See our Member Benefits page for more information.

Who currently funds NPEA?

NPEA is an initiative of The Steppingstone Foundation and is supported by Bank of America Charitable Foundation, The Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Fund, and The J.C. Kellogg Foundation.

How is NPEA different from other initiatives?

NPEA offers benefits for members that address the full range of educational access services, believing that the road to college preparation and access starts early. NPEA members can and do provide preparation, placement and support services for students. Other members (schools, universities, education nonprofits) strongly support the mission of quality educational access for all underserved students. For more information about the NPEA membership as surveyed by Brigham Nahas Research Associates, please see their presentation.