IN THIS EDITION
COLLEGE WAS THE RIGHT PATH FOR NEW SCHOLAR MICHAEL
A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT, HE ENCOURAGES OTHERS LIKE HIM NOT TO GIVE UP ON THEIR DREAMS
ANNUAL LAMP OF KNOWLEDGE CELEBRATION EVENT APPLAUDS AND ENCOURAGES STUDENTS
WITH YOUR SUPPORT, SHE IS DOING WHAT SHE LOVES – ON CAMPUS AND IN THE COMMUNITY
ANGEL KLINGERT IS EXCITED TO JOIN THE COLLEGEREADY TEAM AS NEW SCHOLARS DIRECTOR
COLLEGE WAS THE RIGHT PATH FOR NEW SCHOLAR MICHAEL
A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT, HE ENCOURAGES OTHERS LIKE HIM NOT TO GIVE UP ON THEIR DREAMS
Underneath his laid-back demeanor and shy smile is an individual who is determined to succeed.
“The one person who motivated me to go to college is primarily my dad,” Michael explains.
Michael has been an active participant in NEW Scholars since middle school, and his dad, Miguel, attended just about every monthly parent workshop, eager to learn and engaged in the discussions. “He’s been researching college for a long time, and going to the [NEW Scholars parent] meetings, learning about all types of colleges,” Michael shares. “He sees that college is a great path to go after high school.”
Now that Michael is a graduate of Preble High School, his desire to become the first in his family to go to college is stronger than ever. “I don’t think anybody in our family has graduated high school, so I’m the first,” he says, smiling. “I feel proud of myself and [my dad is] proud of me.”
Michael credits NEW Scholars with the help he needed to decide on his course of study. During a NEW Scholars college campus visit, he and his friends participated in a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation on installing solar panels. “It was pretty easy and interesting, and I liked doing it, so I thought ‘OK, this is something I can actually pursue after high school,’” he shares.
He’s now enrolled in NWTC’s Solar Energy Technology program, and is ready for a great first year. “When you’re a college student you really get to customize your schedule, and take classes that you’re actually excited to go to because you signed up for them. I’m looking forward to that,” he says.
As he looks to the future, Michael offers some powerful advice to younger students: “The path that you’re taking in life isn’t always a straight path, it isn’t always the best path. There’s always going to be obstacles in your way,” he explains.
“But those obstacles are just meant to be overcome, and they’re meant to make you stronger. Never give up on yourself, never give up on your dreams. And always push forward, no matter what.”
HELP US WELCOME ANGEL!
COLLEGEREADY IS THRILLED TO WELCOME ANGEL KLINGERT TO DIRECT THE NEW SCHOLARS COLLEGE READINESS PROGRAM
In her former role as manager of UW-Green Bay’s Rising Phoenix program, Angel led the college credit program for traditionally underrepresented high school juniors and seniors who are dually enrolled in high school and college. At CollegeReady, she looks forward to utilizing her professional experience in education, coaching and counseling, which involved working with a variety of age groups ranging from kindergarten through college and adults.
“It is humbling to reflect on my identity as a first-generation student,” Angel explains, “and I celebrate the students in the NEW Scholars program who share this identity.”
Angel is active in the community as a volunteer and committee member for several local nonprofits. “My personal experiences have helped enhance my connection and care for students and families,” she shares. In her free time, Angel enjoys spending time outside, gardening, and hiking with her partner, Tony, and their dog, Chance.
“I am excited to be here at CollegeReady,” she says, “working with a team that leads with the students and family’s best interest in mind.” Welcome, Angel!
WE’VE GOT A LOT TO CELEBRATE
ANNUAL AWARD EVENT APPLAUDS AND ENCOURAGES STUDENTS
On July 17, Green Bay’s Meyer Theatre was filled to capacity with community support and positivity, as CollegeReady cheered on college-bound students at our 2024 Lamp of Knowledge Celebration. This very special event was dedicated to high school graduates receiving their scholarship awards, and the NEW Scholars Class of 2031 who were introduced to the community as the latest group of students to join the college readiness program.
Master of Ceremonies Eric Sponholtz kept the evening lively and fun, and after an enthusiastic welcome, Jeopardy! champion and local celebrity Ben Chan took the stage as keynote speaker. A St. Norbert College professor, Ben’s experiences in academia and on Jeopardy! have both challenged and energized him, and he shared advice with students in the audience.
“Everybody here is rooting for you,” he said. “We’ll be delighted when you succeed, and we’ll be here to support you during your setbacks.”
At the post-event VIP Reception, sponsored by the George Kress Foundation, scholarship recipients were introduced to the individuals responsible for funding their scholarship, which offers a unique opportunity for connection and encouragement.
Scholarship recipient Gracie remarked that she enjoyed meeting her scholarship provider: “Hearing [their] perspective and insight was truly inspiring. I plan on keeping in touch as I progress through my educational journey.”
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT CADENCE SHINES AT UW-MADISON
WITH YOUR SUPPORT, SHE IS DOING WHAT SHE LOVES – ON CAMPUS AND IN THE COMMUNITY
“During the last school year, I learned the importance of new experiences and opportunities because so many good and unexpected things can come out of it.
I joined Alpha Phi Omega, which is a co-ed community service fraternity, where I participate in 16 hours of service each semester.
I am also in our on-campus a cappella group Pitches & Notes, where I can express my passion for music and singing with other women who love to do the same!”
CADENCEUW-Madison, Journalism major
2023 West De Pere High School graduate
