Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG), a national nonprofit committed to empowering young individuals with the skills for success in education, employment, and life, is excited to announce the newest addition to its board of directors, Soni Basi.

Bringing a wealth of HR and business experience, Ms. Basi has served as chief people officer at Edelman, the world’s largest independent global communication firm, since 2022. Her dedication to education and workplace preparation for young people, particularly those of color, aligns seamlessly with JAG’s mission to prepare high school and other students for further education or meaningful employment.

Janelle Duray, president and CEO of JAG, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Soni to our board of directors. With her unique perspective and proven track record in human resources across the PR industry and beyond, coupled with her passion to support JAG students’ success, we are confident that her contributions will play a crucial role in advancing JAG’s impact across America."

Ms. Basi joins a dedicated team on the JAG board, including seven state governors (board chair Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa, and vice chair Gov. Albert Bryan, Jr. of the US Virgin Islands among them). The board also includes executives from major companies such as GE, Microsoft, Boeing, Regions Bank, Synchrony, HCA Healthcare, and others.
At Edelman, Ms. Basi leads a worldwide team of professionals with responsibilities across the HR lifecycle. Her previous roles include nearly two years at AIG, where she built the first Global Talent Center of Excellence, and four years at Allergan plc, where she served as the vice president of global talent.

Says Ms. Basi: “As soon as Janelle asked me to join the JAG board, I had no hesitation in saying yes. Having been involved at the affiliate level for many years, I knew the work that JAG does day-in, day-out firsthand.  I look forward to furthering work of the national organization and I can’t wait to get going!”

About Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG): Jobs for America’s Graduates is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people with the skills and support they need to succeed in education, employment, and life. With 39 state affiliates spanning 1,600 communities and a 44-year history of success, JAG has served over 1.6 million youth to date.

JAG delivers transformative programs in high schools, middle schools, and after-school programs, equipping 80,000 youth annually who face significant challenges in underserved areas with essential life and career skills. Through project-based learning, trauma-informed care, and employee engagement, JAG ensures its students graduate from high school and seamlessly transition into promising careers or post-secondary education. JAG’s headquarters is in Alexandria, Va.
For more information, please contact:

James Wall
VP Communications and Marketing
James.wall@jag.org, 303-548-7014