The I CAN Center of Excellence, a regional college access network serving north central Ohio, recently hired Julie McGinnis of Marion as its new executive director. McGinnis will assume the reigns from Dan Burkhart, who officially retires after 5 years serving the organization.
McGinnis will help continue the I CAN’s college access mission in Marion and surrounding school systems, including ACT preparation workshops, last dollar grants, FAFSA completion nights, and many other impactful programs. The continued goal of the organization under McGinnis will be to increase the number of students who remain in high school; increase the number of students who pursue education and training after high school; and support area school systems and collaborate with colleges, while improving the communities I CAN serves with regard to economic, social, and workforce development issues as it relates to educational attainment.
McGinnis is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling. Her professional background includes education, alcohol & drug prevention, and experience with the Ohio Supreme Court specialized docket. Most recently she served as Specialized Docket Coordinator for Marion County Family Court/Family Dependency Treatment Court.
A native of Marion, Ohio and graduate of Ridgedale High School, McGinnis has been involved in the Marion community for a number of years, including board service on Boys & Girls Club of Marion County and Marion Matters. She has also lent her vocal talents to community theatre, including charitable performances for area non-profit organizations.
“My vision as the executive director of the I CAN Center of Excellence,” said McGinnis, “is to ensure every student in Marion and surrounding counties has the information and opportunity to successfully plan their future.”
“The achievements of our community’s youth, she added, “are what drive my passion in this position.”
The I CAN Center of Excellence is a program developed to motivate students of all ages to stay in school, earn a diploma, and view higher education as necessary, desirable, and obtainable.
Since its inception, I CAN has developed, implemented, and promoted unique and impactful college access programs in a six county region of central and north central Ohio that includes: Delaware, Hardin, Marion, Morrow, Union, and Wyandot counties.
I CAN Center of Excellence is a 501c3 non-profit and partner agency of the United Way of Marion County. Its programming is supported annually through the United Way, Marion Area Community Foundation, Marion Rotary Foundation, program service, grants, donations, and larger philanthropic gifts.
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