Over 200 Supporters Attend Boston Scholars Program Spring Benefit

The Boston Scholars Program, a new Boston non-profit that "opens doors through educational opportunity" celebrated its inaugural year of operation with a benefit on March 13. More than 200 Boston professionals and graduate students filled Lucky's Lounge and gave over $6000 to the Boston Scholars Program while enjoying live music, cocktails, and the chance to win several raffle prizes. Click here to see photos from the event.

Guests included a wide variety of Boston professionals, socialites, grad students and a few people who happened to be in the right place at the right time. The event was also attended by many teachers and others involved in education. "I'm so glad the Boston Scholars Program was created. We're having a great time tonight," said Mother Caroline teacher Ginna Gauntner.

Eva Higby, Boston Scholars Program Director and the organizer of the event said that "we expected over 100 people and we ended up having more than double that amount. Everyone brought their friends since it is such a great cause to support, and certainly our ability to throw a fun party helped as well."

The Boston Scholars Program draws candidates from partners such as Big Brothers of Massachusetts Bay and local junior high schools. Eighth grade students chosen to be Boston Scholars have a record of accomplishment and have been accepted to private high schools, but are unable to afford the tuition and need additional attention and support to be successful. As Boston Scholars, they will receive both scholarship money and they will be paired with a mentor from the professional community who will support them throughout their high school careers.

"The amazing success of this event and the support we had received continue to demonstrate our success and the need for a program that provides both financial and mentoring assistance to deserving students" said Boston Scholars Program Executive Director, Rob Higby, in a short address to those gathered.

Founded in 2003 by a group of young Boston-area professionals, the Boston Scholars Program will select approximately a dozen deserving students to be the Boston Scholars Class of 2008 and receive a scholarship and a mentor. To learn more about the organization, to become involved, or to make a donation, visit www.bostonscholars.org.

Boston Scholars Program Presents to Local Students

Tonight the Directors of the Boston Scholars Program presented to the 8th grade students from our three partner schools in the gymnasium at the Epiphany School. The evening began with a game, where randomly selected groups of students were asked to discuss what it takes to be successful in various professions, such as a doctor, teacher, engineer, or lawyer. The students had a chance to interact in small groups, including one of the Directors of the Boston Scholars Program for each group. The exercise was aimed at helping the students understand the many opportunities that are available to them, and what they need to accomplish in order to get there.

After this exercise Ann Mittelstadt walked the students through the application process, highlighting the February 13 deadline and the interview process. By the end of the presentation, it was clear that the students were excited about the prospect of winning one of their first academic awards ever, and earning over $4000 to help with their tuition.

To top off the night, Rob Higby, Director of the Boston Scholars Program asked on of the students, "Hey Josh, what did you think about tonight's presentation? Were we cool, or kind of dorky?" Josh answered, "...I guess I would say half and half." Well, if we're already "half cool" in the eyes of an eight grader after just one presentation, then we have made a lot of progress already!