This year is off to a wonderful start across all our verticals, with January bringing exciting updates for many of our programs! In our BridgeUP + Out Program, one of our students from Cardinal Hayes High School, Lucas, was featured on News 12, the Bronx, to talk about his role as team captain for the track and field team, along with plans for pursuing the sport in college. He discusses the ways in which the sport has enriched his high school experience and has given him a passion and purpose. Many of the BridgeUP + Out students are involved in, or want to pursue sports in college, which is supported and encouraged. You can read more about Lucas and watch the interview here.

Within our BridgeUP Bootcamp Company program, an alumni cabaret took place to celebrate the new year. 11 alumni returned to Northern Stage for a full performance, and the current bootcamp students got to sing with them, a lovely full circle moment. The alums were able to share their stories and experiences, giving advice and guidance to the current bootcamp members.

In our Empowering Women Vertical, the BOLD scholars are back at school, beginning their spring semesters! At Middlebury College, the BOLD scholars had tea with President Laurie Patton, getting to share about their classes and hearing about her story and experience. It was an enriching afternoon for everyone! The scholars also spent time in January baking with Vermont State senator, Ruth Hardy. They have been getting wonderful exposure to the powerful women in leadership around them. At Rutgers University-Newark, many of the BOLD scholars were able to spend the winter away, to places like New Hampshire, Spain, India, Nepal, and Thailand, engaging in enriching courses during the break. One scholar, Sehrish, worked within the Price Humanities Scholars Program, focused on students who are looking to pursue graduate school and careers in the humanities professoriate. Wishing the best of luck to all our BOLD scholars in the spring semester!

In our empowering innovation vertical, The Fuller Project, a grant recipient, wrapped up their second Fellowship, who was a BOLD scholar. During her time, Karoline G. engaged in research, publications, social media, and website maintenance.  Her work with the communications team started in early summer, allowing her to make significant contributions to the organization. Amazing work Karoline!

With a very exciting couple of site tours coming up in February, the HGB can’t wait to see what’s in store for February!