Edwardson Civic Scholars Student Profile Valencia Koker

Valencia is working to build sustainable education models that support Chicago youth and the city’s future civic leaders.

Occupation: Senior Vice President and Executive Director, City Year Chicago

City: Chicago, IL


What skills are you looking to develop at Booth and implement into your social impact work?

I want to sharpen my skills in financial strategy, data-driven decision-making, and entrepreneurship. My goal is to build models that are sustainable and that expand access and opportunities for underrepresented, underserved communities.

What are your career aspirations?

With a focus on access and opportunity, I aim to lead where business and social impact meet, building solutions that create lasting change and open pathways for underserved communities.

How do you think the Booth classroom experience will help you in your work/career growth?

I will have an opportunity to translate my learning immediately into the decisions and scenarios that I am currently navigating. It will be an absolute privilege to learn beside professionals in other sectors, as I know it will stretch my thinking and sharpen me as a leader.

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