Our Team
Jessica Angel
Executive Director & Founder
I have always been inspired by my parents, who emigrated from Colombia to pursue their desire for higher education. Their unwavering mission in leveraging their education and making a positive impact on the community has motivated me to study law and public policy to serve others. During my time in college and graduate school, I have seen firsthand how young leaders are propelling each other forward toward making their mark on the world. I believe that it is necessary for the leaders of tomorrow, rising high school seniors, to have that same support system as they apply to higher education. I know that Summit United will cultivate a network of individuals that are driven to use their undergraduate degrees to make a real difference and ultimately create a movement that motivates others to have the courage to reach the summit of their dreams.
Education:
J.D. Candidate, Yale Law School
Master in Public Policy Candidate, Harvard Kennedy School
B.A. in Political Science & B.S. in Geographic Information Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Walter James Husmillo
Director of Marketing & Founder
I came to America when I was 2 years old with my parents. Their journey to America was to build a better life for themselves and me. I was inspired and had a vision that I wanted to make something of my own. I envisioned the American dream of owning my own business. I have the determination along with the support of my friends and family to make that dream into reality. I understand that many people may not have such a clear goal as myself. Some people may not have the motivation to achieve their dreams. I know that with hard work, anything can become reality. I truly believe that Summit United will not only provide the support but also the motivation for others to succeed in anything they put their minds to. Summit United gives the chance for other to achieve the impossible.
Education:
B.A. in Business Management, DePaul University
Kimberly Belser
Director of Outreach
As the daughter of an educator, I grew up with the understanding of how highly interconnected education is with opportunity and the role that an enhanced understanding of the world could play in helping to determine my path.
I believe that higher education holds the potential for goals to be brought to fruition. To embark on the journey of higher education can mean beginning to fulfill or determine career plans, aspirations, or lifelong dreams. It is for this reason that I believe a source of support and motivation should be accessible to every person pursuing a degree. This is why Summit United’s mission resonates with me, as it will provide high school students with the resources and connections necessary to excel as they begin a new chapter of their lives.
Education:
B.A. in Communication & Spanish, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign