Your next step starts
with a conversation.

CO-FOUNDER & RESEARCHER

Derek Graffeo

Harrison High School · Class of 2028

Derek helps lead speaker outreach, venues, event operations, website development, and research. He created NXT UP TEENS to help students understand careers before making decisions that may shape their futures.

Also a co-founder of Hoops for Hope NY.

CO-FOUNDER

Hailey Graffeo

Harrison High School · Class of 2027

Working at Mixology made Hailey want more students to understand the operations and people behind a business. Seeing uncertainty about careers among teens inspired her to help create a local space for exploration.

Her motivation: bringing behind-the-scenes career experiences to students.

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Benjamin Schenk

Harrison High School · Class of 2028

Benjamin supports the planning and coordination behind NXT UP TEENS Career Nights, helping turn ideas into organized experiences where students can explore careers directly.

His focus: building the structure that helps each experience run smoothly and serve students well.

DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH

Jackson Blane

Jackson helps expand awareness of NXT UP TEENS and connect Career Nights with students, families, schools, professionals, and community partners.

His focus: helping more students discover and participate in meaningful career-exploration experiences.