Mission + Vision + Values
Our Mission
The mission of ACES is to reduce the academic opportunity gap in Minnesota and improve the likelihood of success for students in underserved communities.
Our Vision
Our vision is that ACES students succeed in college and career, and become engaged citizens in safe and equitable communities.
Our Values
Youth-Centered: We put youth first.
Equity: We are committed to working towards our common goals by acknowledging our individual backgrounds and experiences.
Empathy and Responsiveness: We are empathetic and open-minded and try to anticipate the needs of others.
Teamwork: We believe working together leverages our diverse strengths in pursuit of our mission.
Growth Mindset: We are continuously improving to maximize our impact.
Our History
ACES (Athletes Committed to Educating Students) was founded in 1994 by Dr. Rajiv Shah, a physician and entrepreneur who recognized a deep community need for a safe, supportive place where students can learn at their own pace. Ever since, ACES has been working to reduce Minnesota’s academic opportunity gap by providing exceptional math and social-emotional education through the lens of sports. More than 9,000 4th-8th graders have participated in ACES programming at schools and community centers across Minnesota – strengthening their academics and developing crucial skills like teamwork, perseverance, and goal setting.
ACES is proud to be the first and only organization of its kind to have the direct support of every major Minnesota professional sports team. In partnership with the Minnesota Aurora FC, Lynx, Timberwolves, Twins, United FC, Vikings, and Wild, as well as the University of Minnesota Athletic Department, ACES brings learning to life with our hands-on curriculum, individual mentorship, and once-in-a-lifetime field trip opportunities.
