Program Update

We ramped up programming earlier this February, and the energy has been amazing. Each week, students have come in excited and engaged in the program of the day. Their enthusiasm has set the tone for the year ahead and reminded us of the power and inspiration that comes from gathering in community.

Our sessions have included a growing financial literacy partnership with Dayspring Bank, collaboration with EducationQuest to support our College Prep Program, and a continuation of our literacy efforts to improve students’ reading and writing skills. We also introduced our Student Ambassador Program, led by standout ROSS Leaders students who are taking on leadership roles and shaping what ROSS looks like for them, their peers, and future students.

We’ve been on the road this basketball season visiting and supporting our alumni. From Kansas to Iowa, California to New Mexico, Michigan to New Jersey, and beyond, there is nothing like seeing our students pursue their dreams. Showing up for them in these moments matters. It has always been deeper than hoops for us, and when they see us in the crowd, it reassures the message we’ve been preaching all along: this is a lifelong community.

A Message from Our CEO: Jacob Idra

This season has been less about starting something new and more about refining the work we already do. Over the past few months, I’ve seen incredible growth in our organization with the addition of Elizabeth Rorei as our Chief Program Officer and Buom Dobuol as our Community Engagement Director. Their leadership has helped us think deeper about how we show up for our students, families, volunteers, and staff.

I’m especially proud to see our impact realized as our team continues to show up for college students all across the country. Whether it is helping a student expand a professional network or being present at games and major life events, we are reminding them that they have a community behind them. It took years to build the trust and relationships we have with students today — through good times and challenging times alike.

Beyond the statistics, real impact is being there for our community in times of struggle, distress, doubt, and uncertainty. Our impact is realized when our philosophy is put to the test and the people we serve confront their challenges head on and emerge more confident than before. Real impact is resilience followed by growth, and that can only be measured over time.

A Message from Our CPO: Elezabith Rorei

Leading with intention when supporting students has always been at the forefront of my approach to planning programs. We began the month with goal setting and vision boards, encouraging students to bring their goals to life on paper. In celebration of Black History Month, we watched a film about Ruby Bridges. We also welcomed Neal Krauss from Dayspring Bank to speak about financial literacy and money management, providing life skills that will stay with students for years to come.

Impact Stories

We believe that making a difference starts at the grassroots level. That means real relationships and consistent conversations that lead to growth over the long run.

“A student missed programming due to a misunderstanding and was understandably upset. When I found out, I followed up, apologized, and shared my number directly so she could confirm whenever she needed a ride. The following week, she requested a ride to programming, and she attended consistently for the rest of the month, engaged and actively participating in activities.”

“It’s been amazing to watch our students’ confidence grow week by week at programming. We’re seeing it translate directly in the classroom — from speaking up more confidently to greater engagement and staying on top of homework. When students see us show up for positive reasons instead of disciplinary ones, they begin to understand that we are here to support and encourage them, not only correct them.”

“One of our middle schoolers was excited to see me again from our summer program. She shared her increased interest in math and her desire to go to Harvard. She asked to make an exception so she could attend the college tour because that is one of the schools she is interested in applying to. She wanted me to know how much she enjoyed the program and planned to invite her friends to future ROSS events.”

We are proud to share that one of our Omaha Chapter students, Nunu Gatpan, is participating in the 2026 Jabberwock Scholarship Pageant. We invite you to follow her journey and join us in supporting her growth.

All of our work is made possible through supporters like you. Your generosity allows us to provide meaningful programs, mentorship, and opportunities for the students and families we serve. Every contribution, big or small, helps us expand our impact, strengthen our community, and mold future leaders.