The Oakes family has a long history of working towards improving their community through dedication and involvement. From the legal system, higher education, local government, leading nonprofits, and countless hours of volunteering, the Oakes family continues to support the lives for homeless veterans, at-risk youth, refugees, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Examples include the Hogan-Oakes Scholarship at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, supporting Eastern European refugees, and the Hopkins Elks Lodge #2221 Teaming Up For Teens and Welcome Home Programs. Their actions have made a tangible impact and inspired others to get involved and make a difference.

Austin Oakes is the founder and director of our nonprofit. As a first-generation college graduate, he understands the challenges students face and is passionate about creating opportunities for their success. He earned degrees from Normandale Community College and Winona State University. 

Austin has worked as a Check and Connect Mentor for St. Louis County Schools, a Special Education Paraprofessional for Hopkins Public Schools, and interned with the Hopkins Police Department’s Community Outreach Team (CORE). He has also volunteered with various Twin Cities organizations to enrich the community. 

In his free time, Austin enjoys hiking, gardening, discovering new music, and exploring new restaurants. His dedication to education and community engagement continues to drive the mission of the Oakes Family Scholarship. Home Programs. Their actions have made a tangible impact and inspired others to get involved and make a difference.

Dakota Schlaeger comes from a family of self made entrepreneurs who have successfully built and run small businesses around the Twin Cities, giving him a deep appreciation for hard work, community, and opportunity. His background fuels his passion for supporting local initiatives that help create pathways to success for the next generation. Dakota recently graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Political Science. 

A film buff, Dakota enjoys exploring cinema in his free time, along with spending quality time with friends and family. His business-minded perspective and commitment to community make him a valuable asset to the Oakes Family Scholarship board.

Chrisna Minh brings a strong sense of community and service to the Oakes Family Scholarship board. As the daughter of Cambodian immigrants, she understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with building a future through education. A proud veteran, Chrisna’s dedication to service extends beyond her military experience into her work supporting local initiatives.

Currently, Chrisna bartends at Willow Creek Movie Theater and Nye’s Bar, where she enjoys connecting with people from all walks of life. Outside of work, Chrisna loves attending concerts, eating sushi, and spending time with friends and family. Her passion for bringing people together and her commitment to giving back make her a valued member of the board.