Congratulations to our February 2025 Member of the Month (MeMo)Thomas Butler! National College Attainment Network (NCAN) staff asked him both professional and personal questions so you can get to know him and the work
he does better.
Q: What brought you to the college access and success field initially? A: My journey into the college access and success field began in 1992.
At the time, I was balancing multiple responsibilities, working as a director of enrollment, traveling to recruitment programs, and attending graduate school over 60 miles from home. The demands of constant travel and managing these commitments were
exhausting, and I made the decision to focus on completing my master’s degree and finding employment closer to home.
That decision led me to a position with the college access program at the Philadelphia Education Fund as a college access coordinator. I had the opportunity to provide direct assistance to students while also developing my leadership skills, eventually
becoming the program director. During this time, I became deeply involved in TRIO programs, and policy and advocacy efforts for these essential federal initiatives.
In 1998, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with the legislator who drafted the GEAR UP legislation. This work opened the door for me to join the Philadelphia GEAR UP Partnership program, which further cemented my dedication to this field.
Since then, I’ve led several major college access and success initiatives in the Philadelphia area, including the CORE Philly Scholarship Program and the Philadelphia and PA Project GRAD initiatives.
The Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable has been a central part of my journey since its inception in 1992, when it was an organic network of practitioners and advocates co-founded by myself and seven others. In 2014, I stepped into the role of director,
and in 2022, I was honored to become the executive director. My passion for this field has always been driven by the desire to create equitable opportunities for students, and it has been a privilege to contribute to this mission throughout my career.
Q: What do you love most about your role or organization? A: The opportunity to lead passionate, dedicated individuals who are committed to making a tangible difference in our society. For over 30 years, PCPR has
been a volunteer driven community of leaders and advocates focused on increasing college access and success for underprivileged and marginalized communities.
What fulfills me deeply is guiding this network of professionals who bring diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences to the table, united by a shared vision of equity in education. Together, we provide invaluable resources, information, and support
to students and families who need it most, creating pathways to brighter futures.
Knowing that our collective efforts contribute to breaking down systemic barriers and uplifting communities is the greatest reward of all. It’s an honor to lead leaders and help drive meaningful, lasting change.
Q: What's your favorite thing about being an NCAN member? A: The incredible sense of camaraderie among the members. Being part of this Network means I’m surrounded by colleagues who share my passion for increasing
postsecondary access and success, and we are all united by a common mission.
The support NCAN provides, both to me personally and to professionals across the field, is invaluable. From shared data and research that informs our work, to opportunities to exchange collective wisdom with fellow members, NCAN creates a space where
we can all learn and grow together.
I also deeply appreciate the leadership NCAN demonstrates at the local, state, and national levels. Their efforts bridge the gap between these spheres, ensuring that we’re not only informed but empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities.
Being an NCAN member is not just about accessing resources; it's about being part of a movement that drives real change for students and families nationwide.
Personality Questions
Every month, our MeMos will be answering some fun questions to help us get to know their “out of office” side!
Q: If you were dropped into any movie or TV show as a new main character, what movie or TV show would you pick and why? A: I would choose "A Different World." The culture and legacy of Historically Black Colleges
and Universities (HBCUS) have had a profound impact on my life. HBCUs are often seen as the underdogs of higher education, yet they continue to thrive against the odds. They have been a safe haven for countless African American leaders, providing
opportunities for growth and success that may not have been possible at predominantly white institutions. Being part of "A Different World" would allow me to celebrate and contribute to the rich history and transformative power of HBCUs.
Q: Imagine you could teleport anywhere. Where would you go right now and why A: I’ve never been someone driven to explore through extensive travel. However, I do have a dream destination that lives vividly in my
mind’s eye. I imagine myself on a pristine, white, sandy beach, gazing out at crystal clear, coral blue waters. Beside me is a glass of fresh, exotic fruit juice, always perfectly chilled and ready to enjoy. Just a short walk, no more than 200 to
300 feet takes me to a smooth jazz concert, where the music blends seamlessly with the serene surroundings. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and joy, a place where I can fully unwind and be at peace.
Q: What's your favorite food, and one food you don't like? A: I am a foodie for "comfort food." I'm not a fan of Southwestern cuisine.
Q: If you could immediately be fluent in one language AND proficiently play one instrument, which language and instrument would you choose and why? A: Language I'd be fluent in? Spanish; instrument, guitar. My bachelor's
degree is in music, specifically performance saxophone, but some of my most influential musicians play guitar.
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