On Saturday. May 11th, The Education Foundation of Collier County — Champions For Learning hosted its annual Countdown to Cap and Gown ceremony for the Class of 2024 at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Alico Arena. As each of this year’s 78 seniors walked across the stage to celebrate their time spent in Champions For Learning’s Student Programs, they also proudly announced their plans after completing high school. Students, families, and volunteer mentors gathered to celebrate the Class of 2024’s milestones and achievements, recognize their hard work in and out of the classroom, and encourage their continued success as they advance in the next stage of their post-secondary journeys.
“Our Student Programs are designed to equip and prepare students for their future learning and career goals,” said Barbara Evans, President and CEO of Champions For Learning. “This year’s 78 seniors have put in an enormous amount of time, dedication, and enthusiasm towards enhancing their future, even while enduring hardships and challenges over the past four years. Through their perseverance, these students have been empowered to make informed life decisions regarding their educational and vocational pursuits. We are so excited to watch their futures unfold.”
To date, the Champions For Learning class of 2024 has accomplished the following:
- Submitted 381 applications for college or technical programs
- Earned 16,025 volunteer hours
- 30 students have met the eligibility criteria to receive a Florida Bright Futures scholarship
- 10 students will be graduating with their associates degree at the same time as graduating from high school because of dual enrollment
These 78 high school graduates are advancing to the next stage of life. For some, their work with Champions For Learning is complete. For others, we will continue to walk alongside them as they enter their personal postsecondary path. All of these students are a part of the fabric and future of Champions For Learning. We are proud to have supported these 78 seniors throughout high school, and will continue to provide the resources, tools, and inspiration they need to achieve success post-graduation.
If you would like to join us in celebrating our 2024 senior class, please consider making a gift to Student Programs in their honor at: https://championsforlearning.org/donate-online/