Opportunity Scholars gathered students, family, and mentors for a celebration of their Fall 2021 graduates. The evening started with an official presentation where each graduate was presented with a special stole, lei, and leather folder imprinted with the program logo. Graduates then spoke of their gratitude to the program and the donors who helped to make their education possible. There was a strong [...]
Last week, the Opportunity Scholars program honored their 2020-21 graduates with a virtual Luau. The event gave students a chance to celebrate this important accomplishment with their families, faculty, staff, fellow students, and donors. The evening started with a welcome from program leaders Richard Kaufusi and Latu Kinikini, and a dance performance from student ambassador Haylie Heale. Graduates then spoke to those who [...]
Earlier this month, Opportunity Scholars held their semester luau to celebrate their 2020 Fall graduates. Always inspirational, this semester's virtual event featured remarks from the program director, Rich Kaufusi, and alum, Simeon Lawrence. Lawrence, who received his degree in Finance, shared his personal story with the group and encouraged students to align the practice of goal setting with being intentional. "Start with the [...]
Pride. Perseverance. Inspiration. Accomplishment. Gratitude. Hope. These are just a few of the words that attendees took away from this year's Opportunity Scholars Luau, a celebration of 2020 Spring and Summer graduates. And while the COVID-19 pandemic may have kept them physically apart, this tight-knit community exhibited a real sense of togetherness. Graduates joined via zoom to express gratitude to donors, faculty and [...]
With 33 Opportunity Scholars scheduled to graduate in only a few days, excitement is in the air. Each of these graduates have faced unbelievable odds as first-generation students, making each of their accomplishments even more noteworthy. Kicking off the semi-annual luau, each of the graduates received a lei necklace, a pair of flip flops, and sunglasses. After receiving these gifts, each graduate had the [...]
The Opportunity Scholars program has given students immense support, financial aid and guidance for more than 20 years and continues to grow each year. At the end of each semester, the program celebrates its graduating students at a luau. This semester’s luau began with a speech by Michelle Kaufusi, the newly elected mayor of Provo city. As a first-generation student herself, Kaufusi experienced many [...]
“Sometimes, it’s the people who no one imagines anything of who do the things no one can imagine.” The Opportunity Scholars program at the Eccles School is in the business of imagination. The program supports first-generation college students — students whose immediate family didn’t attend college. Many of the students come from under-represented populations. These journeys make celebrations all the more special. And quite [...]