​Join us for an inspiring evening hosted by the KIPP Texas - Austin Young Professionals Group! This is a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of KIPPsters.

​Whether you're new to KIPP or a longtime supporter, this event is designed to build community, foster meaningful connections, and explore how we can collectively make an impact on our students. Enjoy engaging conversations, network with fellow young professionals, and learn more about how you can make an impact on Austin’s youngest residents.

​What to expect

• ​Guided connection and sharing (introverts welcome!)

• ​Hot takes and Q&A with Jill Kolasinski, the founder of KIPP Austin

• ​Dinner and drinks will be provided

​What to bring

• ​Your presence and authentic self :)

​Parking instructions

​Parking is between 6th and 7th off Colorado. Please see the picture below. Grab a parking ticket, and we can validate you. P1 has several designated guest spots. Once parked, take the elevator up to the lobby - please tell security you are going to floor 17 (Brown Advisory) and they will help you get up.

​About Jill:

​Jill Kolasinski is the founder of KIPP Austin Public Schools and served as its executive director from its establishment in 2001 until 2012.

​Jill entered education as a Teach for America corps member in 1994 in Houston, Texas; the same year that KIPP was launched as a pilot class in the Houston Independent School District. In 1995, she was a founding teacher at the KIPP Academy in Houston when Mike Feinberg started the school as a district charter. In 1999 she moved to Austin and taught in AISD for two years before becoming a Fisher Fellow and opening the first KIPP school in Austin, KIPP Austin College Prep. During her time as executive director at KIPP Austin Public Schools, she laid the groundwork to grow a network of KIPP charter schools in East Austin which will eventually serve over 5,000 students in ten schools.

​Jill continues to work with KIPP Austin Public Schools as a member of the board of directors. She has also served on the Education Service Center 13 board of directors and as an advisor to Austin Achieve charter schools, Magnolia Montessori for All charter school, and EXPLORE Austin. She is a graduate of Northwestern University and lives in Austin, Texas with her husband, Rip Esselstyn, their three children, and two dogs. Jill is currently an instructor at the University of Texas at Austin leading The Plan II-KIPP partnership.

​RSVP now to secure your spot—we can't wait to see you there!