We are pleased to announce that Michael Castens has joined College Futures Foundation’s team. As grants associate, Castens works directly with the grants manager to maintain and optimize grantmaking process and procedures, data systems, legal compliance, and overall quality control. He also works closely with the Foundation’s program officers and the chief program & strategy officer to support strategic priorities.

“I joined College Futures because I saw an opportunity to work for an organization that helps students achieve their education goals regardless of what zip code they come from. As the first person in my family to get a four-year degree, I’ve seen firsthand the effect that can have on one’s quality of life. Education is the most important lever we can pull to help everyone in California achieve prosperity. I hope to be a positive contributor to that goal,” said Castens.

Castens is passionate about making the systems used by foundation grantees and staff as user-friendly and efficient as possible. His previous experience includes Fluxx grants management software sales, grants and operations officer for the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation based in Little Rock, Arkansas, and six years of higher education operations and finance.

Castens received his B.S. in communications from the University of Arkansas. Castens started his role with the Foundation in March of 2022.