35 Years of Opening Doors to Opportunity

Since 1991, Aim High St. Louis has partnered with middle school students from historically under-resourced communities to build confidence, curiosity, and the skills to thrive.

Our Mission

Aim High empowers motivated middle school students from at-risk environments to strengthen their character, self-confidence, determination and initiative through a challenging, engaging academic enrichment program.

Our Journey: Key Milestones Over the Years

1991 — Founded

Aim High was founded by John Burroughs School faculty members Ellen Moceri and Richard Sandler, with support of headmaster Keith Shahan. Started with 50 fifth grade students.

1993 — Expansion

St. Louis Priory School became a second host campus, expanding reach across the region.

2000 — Year-Round

Serving 250+ students annually with Saturday sessions added for year-round programming.

Today — 400 Achievers

Approximately 400 students from 60+ schools. Over 7,500 served since founding. Campuses at John Burroughs School and Washington University in St. Louis.

Made Possible Through Partnership

From our host campuses to our recruitment districts, Aim High thrives because of community collaboration.

John Burroughs School

Founded in 1923, Burroughs is a coeducational, college preparatory day school for grades 7-12. Faculty, parents and students share a commitment to a liberal arts education which strikes a balance of emphasis among academics, arts, athletics and activities.

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St Louis is recognized worldwide as a top-notch educational institution. Founded in 1853, WashU offers outstanding experiences for college students and boasts innovative research facilities on their sprawling campus.

Primary Recruitment Districts:

St. Louis Public Schools

Normandy Schools Collaborative

Ritenour Public Schools

University City Schools

Hazelwood Public Schools

Ferguson-Florissant Public Schools

Jennings Public Schools

Riverview Public Schools

Governance

Board of Directors

Providing oversight and strategic direction for Aim High St. Louis.

Marie Holmes
Kimberly Moody
Aaron Daugherty
Sara Howard
Chris Kilbride
Deena Goran
Jarrett Young
Geoff Ratliff
Board President
Merrill Lynch
Neil Hershey
Board Treasurer
Edward Jones
Kim Jakovich
Board Secretary
Commerce Bank
Kristen Southworth
Governance Chair
Lewis Rice
Dorvonda Payne
Aim High Alumni
Jennifer Salrin
John Burroughs School

Our team

Meet the dedicated staff who bring Aim High's mission to life every day.

Tamila (Tammy) Taylor
Executive Director
Jessica Pachak
Development Manager
Kwira Vickers
Data Manager
Angelia Rougeau
Lead Site Director
Dr. Bennett Wilkins
Site Director