A Cambridge, Massachusetts native, Vahsaun Givans is a passionate advocate for educational equity, youth development, and community engagement. His commitment to expanding opportunity is rooted in his own educational journey, having been awarded the Progressive Scholarship to Colby-Sawyer College, a scholarship designed to promote diversity and expand access to higher education.

As Director of Development & Partnerships at METCO, Inc., Vahsaun leads efforts to cultivate strategic partnerships, engage alumni, and secure philanthropic support that expands educational opportunities for students and families.

Throughout his career, Vahsaun has secured more than $5 million in grants, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic support while building partnerships across the nonprofit, corporate, education, and public sectors. In 2015, he received the Under Armour & Jr. NBA Program of the Year Award for leading an inclusive youth basketball program serving boys and girls, Special Olympics athletes, and wheelchair basketball participants.

Vahsaun believes that it takes a village to raise a child, and is committed to creating meaningful partnerships that connect students and families with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive.

Favorite Book: "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite Song: "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)" – Nas featuring Lauryn Hill
Favorite Travel Destination: Europe