In this episode of Leaders Build Leaders, Dr. Coakley talks with Geof Garner, program manager for TRIO Programs, about his inspiring and unconventional journey. From his parents’ short-lived drag racing business and early school challenges to serving in the military and working overseas, Geof shares how each experience shaped his “guide on the side” leadership style. The conversation highlights the power of resilience, the importance of the word “yet,” and how programs like TRIO and Upward Bound open doors for first-generation and low-income students.

If you'd like to learn more about alternative pathways at MESD, visit www.multnomahesd.org/programs/trio