The Attainment Network Announces New CEO

March 5, 2025

Rana Tarkenton to take the reins

We are excited to share an important leadership update at The Attainment Network! After a rigorous and transparent search process, our board has unanimously and enthusiastically selected Rana Tarkenton as our new Chief Executive Officer. 


Rana has served as The Attainment Network’s Chief Operating Officer since 2020, and she brings a deep commitment to expanding education and skill-building opportunities for all learners. Her leadership will build on our momentum, strengthening partnerships and ensuring that every learner in Colorado has access to high-value, in-demand career opportunities.  


Rana will officially take over as CEO on April 1, following the transition from Therese Ivancovich, who announced her resignation in December after nine years of exceptional leadership. We are deeply grateful for Therese’s vision, dedication, and lasting impact. 


Rana brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to working in partnership to advance opportunities for all learners. Her leadership will build on our momentum by deepening partnerships, expanding innovative career pathways, and ensuring every learner in Colorado has access to the education and real-world experience they need to succeed in high-value, in-demand careers. 


Prior to joining The Attainment Network, Rana was the founding Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Impact at the University of Colorado Denver. She also served as Chief Operating Officer at the Denver Scholarship Foundation and oversaw statewide college access and outreach programs for the Colorado Department of Higher Education. She began her professional career in Boston in the community arts world before following her heart into the field of educational opportunity programs here in Colorado. 


“The Board has full confidence in Rana and the entire Attainment Network team as they continue to drive forward our mission,” said Andrea Stiles-Pullas, board member and chair of the search committee. “We look forward to this next chapter and the exciting opportunities ahead.” 


Please join us in celebrating Rana

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The Attainment Network is proud to welcome CareerWise as a collaborating sponsor of our 2025 L/Earner Voice Symposium on Oct 2, 2025 – a free virtual event elevating learner and earner perspectives to inform the design of inclusive, future-ready career pathways. CareerWise's Commitment to Learner-Centered Apprenticeship Design CareerWise Colorado is a national leader in building modern youth and adult apprenticeship models that align with workforce needs while supporting diverse learners. We’re grateful for their leadership and partnership over the years, and especially thankful for their support of this year’s L/Earner Voice Symposium! Featured Session: Teacher Degree Apprenticeship Program CareerWise will lead a breakout session featuring learner and earner experiences with their Teacher Degree Apprenticeship -- an innovative pathway that: Prepares future educators through hands-on, paid teaching experience Combines classroom learning with job-embedded mentorship Addresses Colorado’s teacher workforce gap , especially in rural districts Expands access to teaching careers for learners from underrepresented backgrounds Register for this free, virtual event today! Mark your calendar today and plan to join us in the fall for this free, virtual event where learners and earners share insights into how they navigate career exploration, postsecondary transitions, and job preparation in today’s evolving economy. When: Oct. 2 from 9 to 11 a.m. Where: Virtual event Cost: Free Register Today