Bright Futures Scholars take on the world

from the Bright Futures Scholars

Graduation is over and the Bright Futures Scholars have invaded the community, displaying the leadership skills gained from the Quality of Life Center, Inc., Bright Futures Scholars Leadership Development Program.

On Saturday, May 10, before a crowd of nearly a 1,000, the “Bright Futures Scholars” high academic achievers, led by Dean of Scholars Dr. Sandra E. Thomas, assisted by Honorary Dean of Scholars Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, held their Graduation and Awards Luncheon at the Pasadena Convention Center. Proud scholars from Pasadena Unified School District, several local charter schools and from other nearby surrounding middle and high schools participated in the celebration.

Many shared moving speeches that showed their dedication not only to the program, but to their upcoming future. Attending mentors included: Supervisor/Honorary Dean of Scholars Michael D. Antonovich, Congresswoman Judy Chu, Mayor Bill Bogaard, Pasadena City Council members Vice Mayor Jacque Robinson and Council Member John Kennedy, LA County Fire Chief Daryl Osby, Pasadena Police Chief Phillip Sanchez, Altadena Sheriff Captain John Benedict, Pasadena City Attorney Michele Bagneris, Superior Court Judges Phillip Soto and Michael Carter, Pasadena City Manager Michael Beck, and former Assemblymember Anthony Portantino. In attendance also were several community clergy representatives, Bright Futures Scholars Alumni along with many proud parents, relatives, friends and supporters of the program.

The ceremony was brought to life by emotional reflections from graduating scholars and an acknowledgment to all the mothers in honor of Mother’s Day. All seniors are moving on to prestigious institutions of higher learning in the fall and were absolutely delighted to receive their portion of the $26,000 awarded in scholarships during the graduation celebration. The magnificently decorated venue full of family and friends was a beautiful way to end a highly successful academic year for all of the Bright Futures Scholars.