Jackie Shaver

On May 1, Maizey, our Chief Happiness Officer, and I decorated our car and headed off to join the celebration. We were welcomed with excitement; Scholars were overwhelmed with joy and disbelief that their biggest dreams were coming true. It was fulfilling, to say the least, to be able to be a part of the process. I encourage potential donors to get involved in the scholarship program. You will have a front row seat to seeing students’ dreams unfold as they are granted an opportunity to an education not otherwise available to them. This will change the trajectory of their lives, as well as the lives of their families.

I was excited and honored to be included in the KC Scholars surprise award presentation and parade celebration. This is Ad Astra’s first year donating towards a named scholarship; however, we have been volunteering as scholarship application reviewers for two years. The reviewing experience was really eye opening. I recommend it for anyone trying to understand what post-traditional students (Adult Learners) are experiencing and the hurdles these students face.

After two years, I felt strongly that Ad Astra needed to support the scholarship program financially. I read the stories of some of these candidates; their struggles through adversity, their grit, and the significant opportunities that a college diploma would unlock for them. My heart was stirred. We just had to help. Given our mission to help colleges graduate more students faster, supporting KC Scholars was a no brainer. We are laser focused on ensuring our mission contributes to closing equity gaps in degree attainment. KC Scholars is also in the business of closing these gaps. It is very gratifying to have a more direct and personal involvement in transforming students’ lives.