Four Questions with Prep for Prep Alumna Caroline Gonzalez (P9 III)

 

The 2024 Alumni Report features a Q&A with community builder Caroline Gonzalez (P9 III/Exeter ’94, Yale ’98) MPA, Columbia ’04, Strategic Advisor at the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. In this interview, she reflects on key lessons from her Prep for Prep experience, the core value that resonates most with her, her definition of success, and her current work bringing together global partners to expand economic opportunities for youth.

I. What is a key lesson from Prep for Prep that you’ve taken into adulthood?

Prep for Prep taught me to always put my best foot forward, and it’s something I’ve tried to do in my personal, professional, and civic life. 

At this stage of my life, commitment resonates most with me because today it feels like there are so many ways our efforts can be derailed, but you have to know and preserve your sense of purpose to move the things you want forward. 

III. How do you define success for yourself?

Success for me is having a rich and balanced life—working on meaningful issues, spending quality time with family and friends, and contributing to making my community a better place. 

IV. Are there any upcoming projects or life events you’d like to share with us? 

My role as Strategic Advisor for the Hilton Foundation has me busy these days organizing a convening of 200 grantees and partners from the four cities where we work: Los Angeles, New Orleans, Mexico City, and Mombasa. I’m excited to share Mexico City’s vibrant energy with them and to lay the groundwork for working collectively to advance our shared agenda of creating better economic opportunities for youth in our cities.