Project Summary

The Preble Promise will raise the level of college attainment in Preble County through quality programs and services. The Promise serves students, parents, and non-traditional college applicants, and will partner with businesses, local governments, schools, and nonprofit agencies.

About me

My name is Jack Grubb and I have a diverse background in education and marketing. I just received my Master's of Public Administration and I cannot think of a better use of my talent than to serve Preble County. My wife, Sarrah, and I moved to the area three years ago when she received a job as a gifted and talented teacher at the Preble County Education Service Center (ESC). The superintendent of the ESC, Paul Erslan, has greatly helped us articulate many of the objectives of the Promise, and has helped organize many of the community meetings. Janet Crelin of the United Way also has helped raise enthusiasm for the project, and helped us navigate away from anticipated derailments. Other major players are now too numerous to mention, and we have yet to receive any major resistance. However, the county may be high on ideals, but it falls relatively low on moral. The Make it Your Own Grant would not only provide some greatly needed seed money, but it would also energize everyone and show that someone outside of Preble actually care what happens to them. Personally, I have taught students who were brimming with promise, but have been dismissed by those that matter. I see the same hidden potential in Preble County's youth and organizations, with the greatest roadblock being a self-depreciating pessimism. The Preble Promise, along with the Case Foundation's support, could be a catalyst for not only post-secondary success, but also for a renewal of Preble County pride.