As we transition from winter to spring, the Foundation’s programs continue to blossom with achievement and impact. March brought exciting developments across our verticals, showcasing the dedication of our Scholars, Fellows, and partners in creating meaningful change.

At BridgeUP + OUT, Seniors are finalizing their graduation plans and deciding which college they would like to commit to, while freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are each exploring their various summer opportunities. Meaningful summer experiences are a cornerstone of BridgeUP + OUT’s approach to development. We are excited and looking forward to each student creating a fulfilling summer plan! 

This month, BridgeUP GiddyUP riders enjoyed an enriching field trip to Panther Creek Ranch & Stable. Students broadened their perspectives by interacting with animals and staff from a different facility, creating a memorable and educational experience. Panther Creek provides emotional and behavioral health support through an innovative outdoor model. Their approach of utilizing horses, small animals, and their beautiful farm to support whole-being healing aligns perfectly with BridgeUP  GiddyUP’s values of holistic growth and wellness.

Applications were open throughout the Spring for high school students in and around Atlanta to become BridgeUP STEM Scholars. Current BridgeUP Scholar, Zoe B., reflects on her time in the program: “BridgeUP STEM Scholars made me realize how vital it is to understand all aspects of technology… As I plan to go into cybersecurity, I want to take my knowledge from the classes and use it to devise strategies on how to protect various platforms – whether it is a neural network or data science system.”

The program continues to be supported by outstanding mentors like Dr. Rosa Arriaga, a faculty mentor who was recently featured on Georgia Tech Computing’s social media. Dr. Arriaga is pioneering ways to bridge gaps in the continuity of healthcare through innovative technology-driven solutions. Her work focuses on designing systems that foster engagement, self-advocacy, and seamless communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Our BOLD Women’s Leadership Network Scholars are making significant contributions in their respective areas of interest. Earlier this month, Scholars gathered over Zoom to participate in the 2025 BOLD Magic Grant Pitch! It was an amazing event with Scholars from our host institutions presenting thoughtful ideas and projects. From connecting local farmers to organizations fighting food insecurity, to building a robust peer-mentoring program, we are deeply impressed by the extremely intentional work put into these projects and pitches. We love that Scholars from across institutions are able to share updates and connect across campuses, strengthening their community despite geographic distance.

Within the BOLD Theater Women’s Leadership Circle, we are beyond thrilled to announce that Maria Manuela Goyanes will assume the role of Artistic Director of LTC3 and Producer. This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the program and its participants.

“In 2012, Maria Goyanes and I attended the opening of the brand new Claire Tow Theater. It feels so right that 13 years later, we would be back together at Lincoln Center Theater,” shares Incoming LCT Artistic Director, Lear deBessonet. “For 20 years Maria has inspired me with her dazzling vision of the American theater, her joyful, courageous, wildly creative approach to producing, and her deep kindness as a friend. From our time at 13p to our many years at the Public, I have loved walking beside Maria – here’s to our next great adventure, dear friend!”

In our Empowering Innovation vertical, the Brown Institute hosted the first round of pitching for their 2025 Venture Competition on Columbia’s campus this March. The competition focuses on innovative solutions across media, technology, and social impact sectors. In this first round, 10 teams were selected to move forward to the finals, where 3 winners will be announced in the coming weeks. These winners will receive scholarships for the Brown Institute’s 2025 Summer Entrepreneurship Program, where they’ll have the opportunity to develop their ideas with expert guidance and resources. The summer program then culminates in one final competition for the three challenge winners, with potential funding of up to $100,000 for the most promising venture!

In the spirit of Helen Gurley Brown’s legacy of innovation and empowerment, we remain committed to supporting trailblazers across all our program areas. As the seasons change, we’re energized by the growth and achievements across our community and look forward to sharing more updates as spring brings new opportunities. Check back next month for updates from April!