About Us

The McKinney Education Foundation (MEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating brighter futures for McKinney ISD students and educators. Since 1991, MEF has brought together community members, businesses, and local leaders to strengthen public education and expand opportunities throughout our district.

Through student scholarships, innovative classroom grants, and our college advising program, MEF provides resources that help students prepare for life after graduation and empower educators to bring meaningful ideas to life. By connecting the generosity of our community with the needs of our schools, we help ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

For more than 35 years, MEF has proudly served as the bridge between McKinney ISD and the community that believes in its students. Together, we are investing in education and building a stronger future for McKinney.

 

Building Brighter Futures Since 1991

For more than 35 years, MEF has connected the generosity of our community with opportunities that help McKinney ISD students and educators thrive.

To inspire and assist McKinney ISD students and educators toward excellence and make a difference in a child’s life through education.

MEF’s dedicated team includes a CEO, Program Manager, Executive Assistant, and three College Advisors who work together to support McKinney ISD students and educators. From building community partnerships and managing programs to providing students with personalized guidance for life after high school, our team is committed to creating opportunities and transforming futures through education.

CEO

Karen Walker serves as CEO of the McKinney Education Foundation, bringing more than 20 years of experience in education, leadership, communications, and nonprofit development. She is passionate about building community partnerships and creating opportunities that help McKinney ISD students and educators thrive.

Program Manager

Maria Fields serves as MEF’s Program Manager, leading the Classroom Grants Program, Employee Giving Campaign, and Student Scholarship Program. She works closely with educators, students, donors, and community partners to help MEF make a meaningful impact across McKinney ISD.

Executive Assistant to CEO/Board Liaison

Crystal Stolfa serves as Executive Assistant to the CEO and liaison to the MEF Board of Trustees. She supports the Foundation’s daily operations, board communication, and organizational coordination, helping keep MEF’s work moving forward.

McKinney Boyd

Julie Ferraro serves as MEF’s College Advisor at McKinney Boyd High School.

McKinney North

Sarah Bengston serves as MEF’s College Advisor at McKinney North High School.

McKinney High

Sarah Snyder serves as MEF’s College Advisor at McKinney High School.