The Founder’s Circle Award was established by National Skills Coalition’s Board of Directors in 2023 in honor of founding CEO Andy Van Kleunen. The award is given annually to leaders in the public, private, and philanthropic sectors who have leveraged their influence to further NSC’s mission and impact.   

  

Over his 23 years leading National Skills Coalition, Andy partnered with public, private, and philanthropic leaders to grow the organization’s influence and impact. During his time as CEO, the organization changed hundreds of state and federal skills policies that have changed thousands of lives. His efforts were rooted in the belief that a greater diversity of workers will have access to a better life, and a greater diversity of businesses will see growth, if inclusive, high-quality skills training is a central part of our nation’s education, economic growth and anti-poverty policies. Andy was named the first recipient of the Founder’s Circle award upon his departure from NSC in 2023 in celebration of his multi-decade commitment to building an organization and a national movement.