Meet Anna Ourada, Executive Assistant and Office Manager
August 27, 2025Meet Marian Whitaker, Communications and Events Manager
The Aim Higher Foundation is pleased to announce the hiring of Marian Whitaker as Communications and Events Manager. In this role, Marian will coordinate the Foundation’s communications efforts, manage events, and support key projects that connect donors, schools, and families.
“We are excited to welcome Marian to the Aim Higher Foundation’s growing team,” said Ricky Austin, president of the Aim Higher Foundation. “Her skills and experience will be vital in bringing our message to life and ensuring our events and communications strengthen our mission.”
Marian holds a Master’s degree in Screenwriting from UCLA and a BFA in Creative Writing from Beloit College. She has travelled extensively around the world while working in marketing, publishing, and outdoor education. She currently lives in Northeast Minneapolis with her favorite being on earth, Mr. Bingley the cat.
Meeting the unique needs of each child attracts Marian to the Aim Higher mission. “Having worked several years in many outdoor education settings, I know firsthand how important it is to find the right fit between values, curriculum, and learning styles. Children are like plants; each one requires a particular environment to grow into their full potential. I admire the Aim Higher Foundation for its drive to ensure every child has the opportunity to find the educational setting that is best for them.”
“I hope to reach new audiences and introduce them to the Aim Higher Foundation. Creating a wider base of support and strengthening current relationships will ensure that more children feel the positive impact of Aim Higher’s mission.
-Marian Whitaker, Communications and Events Manager
Please join us in welcoming Marian to the Aim HIgher Foundation’s team!
About the Aim Higher Foundation
The Aim Higher Foundation provides $1,000 renewable student-based, tuition-assistance scholarships so that more children in the twelve-county Twin Cities metro area can experience the life-changing benefits of a Catholic education. Since 2012, the foundation has awarded 19,000 scholarships worth nearly $18M to children to attend Catholic schools serving K-8 students in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.