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We do not learn from experience, we learn from reflecting on experience.
-John Dewey |
Where we startedWho are we? What do we want to become? These questions were raised at the 2010 History of Youth and Community Work Conference. It was there that the idea for providing youth workers the space in their lives to take explore these deeper questions was born.
The NorthStar Fellowship grew from the understanding that practitioners, and their practice wisdom, provide essential building blocks for the field of youth work. By collecting and documenting their wisdom, we believe we can youth worker preparation and practice in Minnesota. |
Where we're goingAfter five years of convening youth workers, NorthStar and it's growing contingent of alumni, are beginning to explore the next stages of our development.
Strengthening youth worker voice and supporting youth workers in leadership roles has been the foundation of our work. More than ever, we believe youth workers need opportunities to share their experiences, grow their perspectives, and challenge status quo. We will continue to create spaces for connection and contemplation, and lifting up the voices of youth workers working with and on behalf of young people throughout the state of Minnesota. |
Facilitators
Hayley Tompkins Fellowship co-facilitator In addition to her role with NorthStar, Hayley Tompkins work with young people, partners, and more incredible people to lead the Minneapolis Beacons Network. She enjoys geeking out on topics like youth-adult partnership, evaluation, and Beyoncé. |
Eric Billiet Fellowship Co-facilitator Beyond his role supporting NorthStar fellows, Eric Billiet is the Minnesota Department of Education's Expanded Learning Specialist. He thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to engage youth workers in meaningful discussion and support their development as leaders. |
Lindsay Walz Project Coordinator Lindsay Walz participated in the fellowship during its first year. Since then she has supported fellows in a variety of ways, including coordination of our e-study projects. In addition, she is the founder and "jill-of-all-trades" at courageous heARTS, a youth-centered art studio in Minneapolis. |
Steering Committee
NorthStar operates as a fiscally sponsored project in partnership with Sprockets in St. Paul. Members of the steering committee bring their wisdom, network and resources to support the fellowship in a variety of ways.
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Carol Thomas
Retired Department Head, Minnesota Department of Education |
Sheila Oehrlein
Division Supervisor, Minnesota Department of Education |
Joyce Walker
Retired Professor, University of Minnesota |
Erik Skold
Executive Director, Sprockets |
Supporters
In addition to strong doses of moral support, the following partners provide a wealth of in-kind and monetary contributions that support the success of the fellowship each year.
