Jobs for America’s Graduates, an organization dedicated to preventing dropouts among young people who are most at risk, elected American Staffing Association President and CEO Richard Wahlquist to its board of directors in late August.

The JAG board is composed of 11 state governors, national and state government leaders, national community leaders, educators, and business leaders. It is currently chaired by Gov. Phil Bryant of Mississippi.

“I am honored to be named to the JAG board, and serve among such an esteemed group of individuals who work together to support an organization that so profoundly changes the lives of so many underserved youth, all of whom can help to enhance the fabric, fiber, and future of America,” Wahlquist said. “This is a testament to the strong relationship between JAG, ASA, and ASA member companies, which was confirmed earlier this year by the formalization of a strategic educational and hiring partnership to help prepare JAG’s youth of great promise for their future roles in the workforce.”

Jobs for America’s Graduates operates in 1,000 classroom sites in 31 states. It provides employability skills training, motivational student organization activities, remediation, academic support and problem-solving for external issues that affect young men and women. JAG also follows up on students for a full year after graduation to ensure their successful transition into work, higher education or both.

Wahlquist is also included in the Staffing 100 list of the most influential people in the industry.