Santa Barbara, CA – June 9, 2024 – Mission Scholars is proud to announce the graduation of the Class of 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history. This year, Mission Scholars celebrated the graduation of two cohorts: 29 high school graduates who are all the first in their families to attend college, and seven college graduates from the organization’s inaugural cohort.
“This is a monumental occasion for Mission Scholars as we celebrate both high school and college graduates for the first time,” said Cassie Lancaster, Executive Director of Mission Scholars. “Five years ago, we welcomed our first cohort of just ten students. Watching these students become the first in their families to earn a four-year college degree, and knowing they will return as mentors to the next generation of Mission Scholars students, is profoundly meaningful.”
The celebration, held at Tucker’s Grove Park, brought together more than 150 people, including the families of Mission Scholars’ graduates, volunteers, and donors. “This event is a chance for the entire Mission Scholars community to come together and celebrate our Scholars’ achievements,” said Lancaster. “These Scholars have an immense network of support, and today is a testament to their collective hard work and dedication.”
The Class of 2024 high school graduates have set new records for Mission Scholars, earning a total of 234 college acceptances and more than $493,000 in merit-based scholarships. Among these achievements are Mission Scholars’ first Edison Scholar, who earned a $50,000 scholarship, and the third Gates Foundation Scholar in the organization’s history, receiving a full-ride scholarship. Impressively, 93% of the graduates will be enrolling in a four-year university next year, with 90% of their combined cost of attendance covered by scholarships.
“We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2024,” said Lancaster. “Their hard work, resilience, and determination have paid off, and they serve as an inspiration to future cohorts of Mission Scholars. Our team of staff and volunteers is honored to support these exceptional students on their journey.”
Mission Scholars provides comprehensive college admissions guidance, mentorship, and career development training to help high-achieving, low-income students reach their full potential and become a force for change in our communities. To learn more about Mission Scholars, visit www.missionscholars.org.
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