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Explore, Learn, and Grow at Grounds for Growth

Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries while connecting with fellow young professionals in a space designed for learning, inspiration, and meaningful conversation. We are pleased to welcome Shalin Klein and Leah Braet as our June speakers.

Shalin Klein is the Founder and CEO of RISE Academy, an innovative Christ-centered education model designed to bridge the gap between traditional classroom learning and the flexibility some modern families are seeking. Known for her visionary leadership, entrepreneurial mindset, and passion for building mission-driven organizations, Shalin is committed to creating businesses and communities that leave lasting impact.

 A 2011 graduate of Kansas State University and former Kansas State Wildcats basketball player, Shalin’s background in athletics helped shape her foundation in leadership, resilience, discipline, and teamwork. She is also a wife to Collin Klein and mother of four, roles that continue to influence her vision for leadership, family, and community.

 What began as a desire to create an educational option that fit her own family best quickly evolved into a larger vision: building a scalable educational community centered on excellence, innovation, faith, and strong culture. From concept to execution, Shalin has led the strategic growth, branding, and operational development of RISE Academy while continuing to grow the organization even from afar during her family’s time in Texas.

 Now back in Manhattan, Shalin is excited to continue building vision and community alongside Collin as he leads the Kansas State Wildcat football program. Together, they are passionate about investing in the next generation and creating meaningful impact throughout Kansas.

 Shalin is passionate about encouraging young entrepreneurs to pursue bold ideas with courage, faith, and perseverance. She believes the strongest organizations are built not simply around profit, but around purpose, vision, and a willingness to step into uncharted territory.

Leah Braet is a communications and marketing professional based in Manhattan with a background in nonprofit development, agency marketing, and strategic communications. Throughout her career, she has helped organizations clarify their vision, strengthen their messaging, and connect purpose to action—believing that the strongest work begins with understanding not just where you’re going, but why it matters.

That belief has shaped both her professional and personal life. Leah has built her career around helping mission-driven organizations create impact through storytelling, fundraising, and brand strategy. Today, she applies that same purpose-driven approach in her work at Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, where she leads marketing and communications efforts for statewide initiatives that support and strengthen Kansas’ early childhood and education workforce.

Leah is also a wife and mother of three children—Brittany (10), Delaney (8), and Briley (5)—and is married to Taylor Braet. Together, they navigate the demanding and exciting world of K-State Football athletics while raising a young family. Balancing motherhood, marriage, and a full-time career has deepened Leah’s perspective on leadership: that vision is what sets the direction, but purpose is what sustains it. She believes the most meaningful growth—whether in work, family, or life—comes from staying anchored in your why while building toward the future you want to create.