The Emily K Center has been a steady presence in Tiffany’s life for nearly a decade. Her daughter, Avery, joined the Center as a Pioneer Scholars student in 2017 and is currently in the Scholars to College program. Avery’s first grade teacher, who was also a tutor at the Center, encouraged her to apply for Pioneer Scholars. That recommendation led to a moment Tiffany still remembers clearly: her child’s very first professional interview with Emily K Center staff.
“Watching my young child sit across from a leader who spoke directly to her, asked thoughtful questions, and treated her with respect was powerful,” Tiffany recalls. “It set the tone for how the Center would always see her—capable, worthy, and full of potential.”
As a single parent working multiple jobs and late shifts, Tiffany often navigated parenting with limited support. Over time, the Center became a place where community formed. What started as something as simple as carpooling taught Tiffany about trust, the ability to receive support, and the impact of shared responsibility.
During particularly challenging moments, that support became even more tangible. The Center helped ease financial barriers by providing access to ACT preparation, summer programs, and enrichment opportunities, ensuring that growth and exposure were more accessible.
Without extended family in the state, the Center has become an extended family for Tiffany and Avery.
“The Emily K Center provided Avery with trusted adults who genuinely believe in her and consistently show up for her. That encouragement—spanning elementary, middle, and high school—has empowered her to thrive and to create space for herself and others wherever she goes,” says Tiffany.
Tiffany also appreciates the Center’s commitment to uplifting parent and caregiver voices. “Through my participation on the Parent Advisory Council, I experienced a level of inclusion and authenticity that is rare—even among well-meaning organizations,” she says. “I have always felt heard, respected, and valued, and I know that my presence and perspective matter at the Center.”
Today, Tiffany describes the Emily K Center as a safe, resource-rich home for students and families.
“Representation matters, and the Center’s staff, leadership, peer tutors, and counselors model intentionality, integrity, and advocacy every single day,” shares Tiffany. “Whether you are part of Pioneer Scholars, Scholars on Campus, or encountering the Center for the first time through Game Plan: Future, this is a place where families can belong. If you tap in, it can become home.”
Read more stories at emilyk.org/20-years
