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What if preparing students for college could also prepare them to change the world?

In this powerful episode of Act to Impact, host Brandi DeVries sits down with Shellee Howard, Founder and CEO of College Ready and Empower Education, to explore how education can be a catalyst for lifelong purpose and global impact.

Shellee has helped more than 3,000 students gain acceptance into their dream schools and secure over $40 million in scholarships, but her mission didn’t stop at college admissions. After a life-changing trip to Uganda, Shelley launched Empower Education, a nonprofit that removes barriers to learning for children in underserved communities around the world.

In this conversation, Shellee shares how a single moment sparked the creation of schools in Uganda, how student-led passion projects are transforming lives globally, and why helping young people identify their “why” is just as important as test scores and GPAs. 

If you’re a parent, educator, or someone who believes in using your gifts to make an impact, this episode will inspire you to think differently about education, leadership, and what’s truly possible.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode

• Education is more than academics — it’s about helping students discover who they are, what matters to them, and how they can serve others.
• Teenagers want to make an impact, but often don’t know how—guidance and opportunity unlock their potential.
• Student-led initiatives create exponential ripple effects, empowering both the giver and the receiver.
• Access to education changes entire communities, especially when barriers for girls and underserved populations are removed.
• Purpose-driven service strengthens college applications while also shaping future careers and leaders.
• Small actions can spark global change—one conversation, one trip, or one “yes” can alter countless lives.

👉 Parents of middle or high school students: Visit collegereadyplan.info to take advantage of Shellee’s free 30-minute consultation and help your student discover their purpose, passion, and path forward.

💛 Are you inspired to take action? Take action and make an impact on a child affected by childhood cancer. Support the much-needed funding for childhood cancer by making a donation NOW to CCRF!

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Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025.

Thank you to guest Shellee Howard. Listen to her podcast ”Parents: Is Your Teen College Ready?”

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