Dr. Carjie Scott is the CEO and Co-Founder of The Education Equalizer Foundation. With over a decade and a half of higher education executive leadership experience, Dr. Carjie Scott has not only managed institutional strategy. She has also developed and mentored other higher education leaders while championing initiatives to streamline processes, automate admissions decisions, and incorporate cutting-edge technology to attract and retain top students at trade schools, traditional universities, and historically Black colleges. Her visionary leadership has consistently exceeded recruitment expectations, resulting in record-breaking enrollments. Dr. Scott’s tireless efforts reflect a deep dedication to empowering students and advocating for equal access to education.
1. Can you provide a brief overview of your organization, including the products or services you offer?
The Education Equalizer Foundation works with middle through high school students and their families to demystify the college admittance process and provide scholars with the necessary tools to graduate. We are a one-stop shop for college preparation, that offers ACT/SAT prep, college tours, assistance with college application submission, completing the FAFSA, and mentorship.
2. What inspired you to start EEF, and how did the idea come about?
I encourage students to own their stories and accept themselves so that they can transform education for individuals who were historically excluded from attending college.
3. How has EEF evolved since its inception, and what milestones have you achieved?
We are celebrating our second year by sharing the growth and opportunities at The Education Equalizer Foundation. We doubled our number of Education Equalizer Scholars this year while increasing opportunities and programs for middle to high school students. Our collaborations included the City of Gainesville, One Nation One Project, the University of Florida, Santa Fe College, the FAMU National Alumni Association of Gainesville, Greater Bethel AME Church, Florida College Access Network, Project Youthbuild, and many organizations dedicated to helping underserved students access college. We prepared 8th graders and high school students for their ACT and SAT exams. These exams help students get accepted to college and increase their chances of scholarships. 86+ Students who received ACT/SAT prep 1-10 Students had an increase of 1-10 points after attending our sessions. 36+ Number of tutoring hours provided to students during 2022-23
4. What sets EEF apart from competitors in the market?
Unlike many of the existing college prep programs, we do not require a particular GPA or ACT/SAT score to take advantage of our services. Also, we intentionally expose our students to all types of colleges, trade colleges, private universities, public universities, and HBCUs.
5. Could you share some challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner and how you overcame them?
We need to do a better job of sharing all our work to attract funding.
6. How do you approach marketing and promoting your products or services?
We use free digital marketing strategies ie social media and word of mouth to share our services and success.
7. What role does technology play in your business operations and overall strategy?
We use a CRM that houses our student, parent, and partner database.
8. How do you engage with your local community, and what impact has that had on your business?
We offer our services to churches, schools, and organizations. We also have opportunities to volunteer.
9. Can you discuss your approach to customer service and building strong customer relationships?
We pair our students with a mentor, and the ratio is 5:1, which enables a personal touch for students and families.
10. How do you stay informed about industry trends and adapt your organization accordingly?
We are members of various national organizations that inform us about industry standards.
11. What advice would you give to someone aspiring to start their own non-profit?
Do it; if you have a solution to a problem, you are halfway there.
12. How do you manage and prioritize tasks to ensure the smooth running of your business?
I work with a team of individuals. I don’t do anything alone.
13. Are there any upcoming projects, expansions, or changes in your business that you’re excited about?
Yes, we are expanding to Lake County soon!
The Greater Gainesville Black Chamber of Commerce salutes Dr. Scott and applauds her efforts! You can find out more about the Education Equalizer Foundation by visiting https://educationequalizers.org.
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