Page 21 - June JSF report

ELEVATION SCHOLARS GRADUATION REPORT (2)
The next students to be celebrated were the seniors in Class 9. Their enrollment decisions, announced in a video, elicited applause and cheers from the audience. This group includes first-time acceptances to Georgetown University, Purdue University, the University of Richmond, Columbia University, Vanderbilt University, and MIT. Gaslande Fleurimont, the Program Coordinator for Elevation Scholars, explained that close to 80 percent of scholars from Class 9 are going to
received a large trophy adorned with a golden lion.
college out of state for the first time, and they have earned more than $3 million in financial aid and scholarships. She described the class as one that demonstrates a high level of kindness. She said they encouraged and supported each other throughout the
process.
The next words of encouragement came from Class 9 member and Evans High School salutatorian
Jatorria Dixon. She advised students to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way, always remember the values they hold dear, and never give up
on their dreams.
The final group to come to the stage were the members of Class 10. As a welcome to the Elevation Scholars family, they each
The closing comments came from Chris King, the founder of the Elevation Scholars program. He challenged the students to change the trajectory of their communities, starting with their families. The inspirational evening concluded in the venue’s lobby with food, music, photos and many words of congratulations.
Page 19 HORIZONS