As schools across the United States continue grappling with post-pandemic learning loss, declining student engagement, and shrinking emergency funding, nonprofit organizations are increasingly stepping in to fill critical gaps. Recent national studies on literacy recovery, student engagement, and career-connected learning show that educators are facing significant post-pandemic challenges in keeping students connected to pathways that lead to meaningful careers and long-term success. At the same time, the rapid rise of AI and workforce transformation is forcing education leaders to rethink how students develop durable skills, discover career passions, and gain equitable access to opportunity.

But what does it actually take to build scalable educational experiences that inspire underserved students, connect them to future-ready careers, and support schools without replacing them?

Welcome to DisruptED. In the second episode of this three-part series, host Ron J. Stefanski sits down with Hrag Hamalian, CEO of the TGR Foundation, to explore how Tiger Woods’ philanthropic vision is evolving into a nationwide educational movement. Their conversation examines the role of experiential learning, AI integration, philanthropy, and relationship-driven education in creating pathways for underserved youth to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The main topics of conversation are…

How the TGR Foundation partners with schools to provide free, layered educational support for underserved students.
Why experiential STEAM learning and career exposure are critical to student engagement and workforce readiness.
How AI can be responsibly integrated into education without sacrificing literacy, comprehension, and durable skills.

Hrag Hamalian is the CEO of the TGR Foundation, the nonprofit organization founded by Tiger Woods and Earl Woods nearly thirty years ago to expand educational access and opportunity for underserved youth. Hamalian previously served as a superintendent and school district leader, bringing deep expertise in educational systems, student engagement, and organizational transformation. Under his leadership, the TGR Foundation has expanded nationally through innovative Learning Labs, strategic philanthropic partnerships, and immersive STEAM-based programming designed to connect students with high-growth career pathways.