
Claire Buethe Promoted to Senior Director of Advancement
March 31, 2026
Following The Best Example: Parents of Aim Higher Scholars
March 31, 2026Meet Erica Torkelson, Director of Finance
The Aim Higher Foundation is delighted to introduce Erica Torkelson as our new Director of Finance.
Erica brings a deep understanding of the Foundation’s financial operations, having supported Aim Higher in a contract role since 2019. Over the past several years, she has been a steady and trusted partner in managing day-to-day accounting, strengthening financial systems, and ensuring accuracy and transparency across reporting. Her transition into this leadership role reflects both her expertise and her long-standing commitment to the mission.

President Ricky Austin remarked, “Erica has already proven to be an invaluable partner to our organization. Her deep knowledge of our financial operations, combined with her thoughtful and strategic approach, gives us great confidence as we continue to grow. At a time where we are greatly expanding our scholarship amounts, we are grateful for Erica’s leadership and the strong foundation she continues to build for our future.”
In her role as Director of Finance, Erica will oversee all financial functions of the Foundation, including accounting operations, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. She will serve as a key advisor to leadership and the Board, guiding financial strategy, ensuring strong stewardship of resources, and supporting the long-term sustainability of the organization.
“It has been a privilege to support Aim Higher’s mission over the past several years, and I’m honored to step into this role,” Erica reflected. “I’m inspired by the impact we make for students and families, and I look forward to continuing to strengthen the Foundation’s financial stewardship in service of that mission.”
Erica’s thoughtful approach, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit have already made a meaningful impact on Aim Higher’s work. We look forward to the continued impact of her leadership as the Foundation grows and evolves.
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.




