Source: HuffPost
Summary
Hollis McAllister, senior vice president of City Year Tulsa, emphasizes the importance of idealism, service, and community in education. City Year, a nonprofit and AmeriCorps program, supports students through AmeriCorps members who serve as coaches. McAllister, who grew up in a community with limited representation, found inspiration in City Year, where she saw her father’s career development. She now leads efforts to improve student outcomes through mentorship and individualized support. Data shows students receiving City Year’s help are more likely to graduate.
Our Reading
The habit gets a new name.
City Year is the new “community service.”
Young adults are the new “mentors.”
Students need “support” more than ever.
Leadership is just a job title with a mission.
It’s not a career—it’s a calling, but also a resume booster.
Author: Evan Null
Key Figures and Numbers
City Year Tulsa has served 58,870 students through Whole School events and initiatives, and 16,753 students through individualized support. Students who received individualized support were almost twice as likely to reach the 10th grade as their peers. Those who received support for multiple years graduated at significantly higher rates—15% higher for one year, 37% higher for two or more years.
Recent Activity
In 2025 and 2026, 75 AmeriCorps members served at City Year Tulsa. Seven Tulsa schools partnered with City Year teams. A total of 2.45 million minutes of support were provided to students through initiatives and interventions. 4,795 students were served through whole school initiatives, and 2,011 received individualized support.
Partners and Supporters
City Year Tulsa is supported by key partners including Bank of Oklahoma, Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies, George Kaiser Family Foundation, QuikTrip, and the Tulsa Area United Way. These organizations help fund and expand the program’s reach.
McAllister’s Background
Hollis McAllister grew up in Acton, Massachusetts, where she felt disconnected due to her biracial identity. She found a sense of belonging at City Year, where she saw her father’s career develop. She later joined City Year as an AmeriCorps member and eventually became the executive director of City Year Tulsa, the first woman to hold that role.
Impact and Goals
City Year aims to help students improve academically, stay in school, and graduate on time. The program provides near-peer tutors, mentors, and role models. McAllister believes in the power of showing up and creating spaces of belonging for students and young adults alike.
