About
I Know I Can

As a nationally recognized non-profit organization, I Know I Can empowers Columbus students to explore and pursue college and career opportunities through individualized advising, innovative programs, scholarships, and grants.

Founded in 1988 by four visionary leaders—Art Kobacker, Teckie Shackelford, Clifford Tyree, Sr., and Bob Weiler—we have remained committed to providing the guidance and resources students need to achieve their goals and fulfill their aspirations.

We are proud to serve students in Columbus City Schools, Reynoldsburg City Schools, South Western City Schools, and Whitehall City Schools.

Our Work

Guiding Students from Exploration to Graduation
  • College and career advising in 26 high schools
  • Middle school career lessons, field trips, and VR experiences
  • High school readiness curriculum and workshops for 9th–12th graders

Family & Community Engagement

  • Family Engagement Workshops, including our Blueprint: College events

  • Outreach events and support through the IKIC College & Career Coach

  • Workshops and advising for students and families at schools, libraries, and community events

Summer Programs & College Support

  • Summer events for high school students and recent grads

  • Personalized support for students after high school graduation, including text check-ins and advising

  • On-campus support through office hours and personalized advising

Postsecondary Success & Financial Aid Assistance

  • Help with college applications, FAFSA completion, and financial aid guidance

  • Career and postsecondary planning, including military and workforce paths

  • I Know I Can Grant, Founders Scholarship, The Columbus Promise

  • Fee waivers for college applications and standardized tests

Our Impact

Over 30 years strong, I Know I Can has helped thousands of students in Columbus pursue their college dreams. Through scholarships, financial aid assistance, and college advising, we’ve enabled students to reach their full potential and contribute to our community.

During the last academic year:

more than 16,000
one-on-one advising sessions occurred in 26 high schools in four central Ohio districts.

Over 3,000
students learned about career pathways through weekly lessons and activities.

Almost $1.7 Million
in I know I can grants & scholarships was awarded to students.

Learn more about our impact by checking out our Annual Impact Reports.

 

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