Resilient Butterfly

Ep. 22 - From Foster Care to Faculty: Empowering Champions for Student Success

In this inspiring episode of Resilient Butterfly, host Pam Feinberg-Rivkin sits down with Dr. Kimberly Dunn, Associate Professor at Florida Atlantic University and Executive Director of Champions Empowering Champions. Dr. Dunn shares her remarkable journey as a first-generation college student who briefly experienced foster care during a challenging time in her family, then went on to earn her Ph.D., build a fulfilling academic career, and create a nonprofit that supports FAU students who have faced foster care or homelessness.

She explains how monthly “squad night” community dinners, peer connection, and learning sessions help students feel they belong and beat imposter syndrome. Dr. Dunn also highlights new transition support made possible by The Polo Club Foundation, plus wellness practices like mindfulness and yoga that sustain resilience. Hear how Champions Empowering Champions provides essentials through Amazon wish lists, graduation support, and a roadmap for life after college.

To learn more or get involved, visit empoweringchampions.org

Contact Pam Feinberg-Rivkin:
Facebook: @FeinbergCare
Instagram: @FeinbergCare
LinkedIn: Feinberg Consulting Inc
YouTube: @FeinbergConsulting8059