Mission & Vision
About
Gabrielle Foreman
Secondary Success & Beyond was founded in Rockford, Illinois, in 2020 by Gabrielle Foreman. As a college senior at Northern Illinois University, Gabrielle saw a real need among her peers—many of whom were first-generation college students trying to navigate higher education with little guidance.
She listened as students shared how overwhelming it felt to understand applications, financial aid, campus resources, and career planning. Gabrielle related to their frustration and felt compelled to “reach back” and support the students coming behind her.
By her senior year, she had figured out how to network, build her resume, and access the tools she needed to thrive. She believed every student deserved that same level of support and access. Out of that conviction, Secondary Success & Beyond was born.
About Secondary Success & Beyond
Secondary Success & Beyond is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Rockford, Illinois. We provide one-on-one mentoring, resources, and guidance to help students move confidently from high school into college, trade school, or the workforce.
Our mentors support students with:
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Exploring interests and career paths
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College and trade school applications
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FAFSA and financial aid
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Scholarships and essay support
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Resume writing, interviewing, and career readiness
Mission: To equip high school and college students—especially first-generation and underrepresented students—with the tools, mentoring, and support they need to succeed beyond graduation.
Vision: We envision a world where every student, regardless of background, has access to the knowledge, relationships, and resources that open doors to college, careers, and lifelong success.
What Makes Us Different
One-on-One Mentoring: Every student is matched with a dedicated mentor.
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Long-Term Support: We start as early as freshman year and walk with students through their college years.
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Holistic Guidance: We address academics, mental well-being, time management, and career readiness—not just grades or test scores.
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Community-Based: Founded in Rockford and shaped by the needs and voices of our local students and families.
