Yalanda Ludtke
Co-Executive Director
What do you do at Higher Expectations?
I support our Education and Post-Secondary Team and manage community partnerships in order to maximize access to education. This helps improve economic mobility for Racine residents by reducing barriers to education.
What is your background?
I grew up splitting time between rural Central Wisconsin and Milwaukee. I studied Communication Sciences and Disorders at UW-Stevens Point before moving to Milwaukee for graduate school where I earned my master’s degree and became a Speech and Language Pathologist. As an SLP for Racine Unified School District, I spent more than 10 years developing a passion for Early Childhood Education, Children’s Literature and Racial Equity and Advocacy.
I live in the Jackson Park neighborhood of Milwaukee with my husband, our two cats and our very large but very friendly dog.
What is your favorite thing to do in Racine County?
Eat! I am not shy about my love for sharing a meal while building new friendships. Racine has so many amazing small businesses to support!
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an artist, and I neglected the fact that I lack all of the necessary skills.
What makes you excited to be a part of the Higher Expectations team?
I’m thrilled to join a team that believes in creating necessary systemic change for good.
What's one thing you love that has nothing to do with work?
I love surprises and heated yoga!