On May 11, Champions For Learning celebrated the 42 seniors who graduated from the Real World Learning Model College & Career prep program. This lovely event presented by BMO Financial Group and hosted at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the work of the students. Students applied for and were selected for this program as juniors and have made a weekly commitment in working toward their goals. This comprehensive college and career preparation program also includes developing foundational skills, goal-setting, test preparation, resume building, college and scholarship application support, and financial aid support that help students make the best decision for their future. These students along with the Take Stock in Children scholars had some amazing results. To-date, 105 seniors have accomplished: • A GPA average of 4.26 • Over $1,688,104 in scholarship offers • Over 11,328 community service hours “They provide us with many resources to not only succeed academically, but with anything else we may encounter in life,” says Nelouse, a College and Career prep graduate. “Collectively they help us and encourage us to be better, and for that we are very appreciative.” This year’s program also included a significant community recognition. This senior class was dedicated in honor of Greg Pasanen, Regional Vice President of Suncoast Credit Union, for his many years of involvement with Champions For Learning and the impact that he and Suncoast Credit Union have made on students. This program is made possible in large part by the generous contribution of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. Students and families had the opportunity to hear from Mark Dienhart and Mary Beth Geier representing Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation the evening of graduation. Doctorate level sponsors supporting the program also includes: Consortium of Florida Education Foundations/State of Florida, The Martin Foundation, Inc., Dellora A. & Lester J. Norris Foundation, Naples Daily News, and Suncoast Credit Union.