Counselor Advisory Board

The Northwestern University Counselor Advisory Board (CAB) is comprised of experienced counselors and college access professionals from high schools and community-based organizations around the country. CAB members play a vital role in providing feedback on admissions processes, share insights on current educational trends, and help ensure Northwestern remains responsive to the needs of counselors, students, and families. Our CAB members bring deep passion for college access, which supports Northwestern's commitment to promoting access, opportunity, and diversity.

Members serve two-year terms, which include an on-campus visit opportunity and virtual meetings throughout the year.

Goals

• Build strong relationships with high school counselors and college access partners to gain valuable perspectives on the college search, selection, and application process.
• Gather constructive feedback to shape general admissions practices and policies.
• Offer networking, professional development, and campus visit opportunities.
• Foster lasting relationships that positively impact students and communities across the country.

CAB Members (2024–25)

• Brandon Brito (he/him)

  • Associate Director of College and Career Counseling, Excel Academy Charter School

• Jameel Freeman (he/him)

  • Director of College Counseling, The Nightingale-Bamford School

• Rosie De La Garza (she/her)

  • Director of Programs, Brewer Foundation Future Leaders Program

• Christine Harding (she/her)

  • Director of College Success, The TEAK Fellowship

• Jake Harding (he/him)

  • Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Sunrise Scholars Foundation

• Claudia Jolivert (she/her)

  • Senior Associate Director of College Counseling, Ransom Everglades School

• Timothy Kimble (he/him)

  • College Access Advisor, Ron Brown Scholar Program

• Robert Lane (he/him)

  • Director of Academics, College Admissions, and Alumni Affairs; Southland College Prep

• Lizzy Smith (she/her)

  • Director of Programs, College Track New Orleans

• Anna Takahashi (she/her)

  • Director of College Counseling, Eastside College Prep

• Sierra Ward (she/her)

  • College & Career Center Advisor, Saratoga High School

• Matt Ybarra (he/him)

  • Program Director, Rural Opportunities for College Access (ROCA) New Mexico/Santa Fe Prep