trio upward bound

More than anything, even if we don’t partner, I want you to know that I’m grateful for the work you do for our youth and this world. Never undervalue nor estimate the impact you are making on a day to day basis. And on the days you don’t have the energy or don’t want to keep going, I pray you remember this message.

You matter,

-Rashad

Meet Me!

How we support Project AWARE goals

If you're working to support first-generation and underserved students in accessing and succeeding in higher education, I partner with TRIO programs in ways that align with your goals around college readiness, persistence, and student success.

My goal is simple: help students build confidence, feel like they belong, and stay committed to the path in front of them—while reinforcing the support and relationships your program already provides.

If you already have a vision, initiative, or focus area, I’m always open to coming alongside it and supporting it in a way that fits your goals and your students.

If you're planning for this upcoming term or exploring ways to continue supporting your students, I’d love to connect.

Interactive sessions designed to help students build confidence, strengthen their identity, and develop the mindset needed to navigate high school, college, and beyond.
Outcomes may include:
- Increased student confidence in pursuing higher education
- Stronger sense of identity and direction
- Greater engagement in TRIO programming
*Can be tailored to align with your program’s specific goals.
Intentional, relationship-centered spaces where students can reflect, share, and build meaningful connections with peers and mentors.
Outcomes may include:
- Increased sense of belonging among students
- Stronger peer and mentor relationships
- Greater student participation and openness
*Can be tailored to align with your program’s specific goals.
Sessions designed to support students during key transition periods, helping them mentally and emotionally prepare for the expectations of college life.
Outcomes may include:
- Increased readiness for college transitions
- Improved confidence navigating new environments
- Reinforced habits that support persistence
*Can be tailored to align with your program’s specific goals.
Support for TRIO staff focused on student connection, engagement, and reinforcing a culture of belonging within the program.
Outcomes may include:
- Increased staff alignment in supporting student success
- Strengthened relationships between staff and students
- Reinforcement of existing program goals and strategies

Ways we can work together

Let's Connect!

WHAT LEADERS ARE SAYING

"I don’t think anybody that has come across the paths of Mr. Cohen can say they haven’t been changed and transformed.”

Dr. Rashad Anderson, Call Me Mister Director & Professor
Metropolitan State University of Denver
"His own story of resiliency and his willingness to share his journey have given students a powerful example of how challenges can be faced with strength and optimism. His influence has nurtured a culture of confidence, empathy, and perseverance that will remain with our students long after their middle school years."

Neil Dejewski, School Counselor
Minnetonka Middle School West
(National Blue Ribbon School)
"Everything he says is incredibly impactful on your life!"

Jacob, 8th Grade Student
"It was super inspirational. The kids left saying they wanted to be like him and hoped he’d come back again. They appreciated that he was real, authentic, and truly believed in what he was saying. That meant a lot to our kids."

Dr. Ashley Schaefer, Assistant Principal
Richfield Middle School
“It brought tears to my eyes. I think most kids are troubled nowadays and they could really use the information that he speaks about.”

8th Grade Student
"He came with resources and materials that we in the education world are always seeking."

Frida Rodriguez, Educator
Adams 12 Five Star School (Denver, CO)
"Wow! He talked to us about what our values were and totally aligned his message for our students. I'm super excited to weave in his messaging through the rest of the school year. Can't wait to invite him back!"

Dr. Cathy Kindem, Principal
Oak Ridge Elementary School of Leadership, Environmental and Health Sciences
"His words perfectly delivered our message, and his contagious energy was key to the success of our lululemon field day. He left a lasting impact on the children who attended."

Alondra Hernandez, Community Specialist
lululemon
"He tailored his assembly to what we needed! He brought the students in right away, got them excited, told a touching story, recognized the teachers and just filled us up!"

Karen Keffeler, Principal
Meadow Ridge Elementary
“We talked to him about what we were feeling and what we needed for our kids. And what’s amazing is that his message was exactly what they needed to hear, like to a tee! Except it was so much better than we could imagine!”

Freya Schirmacher, Principal
Minnetonka Middle School West
"Rashad is the epitome of intentional energy! His engaging, purposeful delivery connects with students on a deep level, making a lasting impact. If you want to inspire real change, I highly recommend booking Rashad."

David Freeman, Senior Director of Alpha
Life Time Inc.

trio upward bound

How we support Project AWARE goals

Ways we can work together

"I don’t think anybody that has come across the paths of Mr. Cohen can say they haven’t been changed and transformed.”

"Everything he says is incredibly impactful on your life!"

"It was super inspirational. The kids left saying they wanted to be like him and hoped he’d come back again. They appreciated that he was real, authentic, and truly believed in what he was saying. That meant a lot to our kids."

“It brought tears to my eyes. I think most kids are troubled nowadays and they could really use the information that he speaks about.”

"He came with resources and materials that we in the education world are always seeking."

"Wow! He talked to us about what our values were and totally aligned his message for our students. I'm super excited to weave in his messaging through the rest of the school year. Can't wait to invite him back!"

"His words perfectly delivered our message, and his contagious energy was key to the success of our lululemon field day. He left a lasting impact on the children who attended."

"He tailored his assembly to what we needed! He brought the students in right away, got them excited, told a touching story, recognized the teachers and just filled us up!"

“We talked to him about what we were feeling and what we needed for our kids. And what’s amazing is that his message was exactly what they needed to hear, like to a tee! Except it was so much better than we could imagine!”

"Rashad is the epitome of intentional energy! His engaging, purposeful delivery connects with students on a deep level, making a lasting impact. If you want to inspire real change, I highly recommend booking Rashad."

This isn’t some cute speech. He lives it.