Patch Blog: Bright Future Scholars Kick off Their 2011-12 Session

Altadena – On Saturday, October 1, 2011 the Quality of Life Center, Inc. kicked off its 2011-12 Bright Future Scholars Leadership Development Registration and Orientation Meeting at the Altadena Community Center. Approximately 250 students and parents attended the event as Dr. Sandra Thomas, Dean of Scholars, welcomed the new and returning participants to this year’s program.

The Bright Future Scholars Program consists of “cream of the crop,” high academic achievers primarily from all Pasadena Unified Middle and High Schools. Students must maintain a 3.3 GPA or higher to qualify.

Since its beginning in 2004, to date, 100% of the participants graduating from the Bright Future Scholars Program have been accepted into colleges and universities across the United States.

Bright Future Scholars offers developmental training that addresses social-economic issues as well as community involvement, and produces well-rounded young people, ready and marketable in today’s society.

Also, during the orientation meeting, a team of “Robotics” experts gave an exciting presentation on robot building and competition to peak the scholar’s interest in engineering and possibly open additional doors for future career opportunities.

On the first Saturday of each month the scholars are mentored by community leaders and dignitaries such as: Congressman Adam Schiff, State Senator Carol Liu, Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard, Pasadena Council Member Chris Holden, Pasadena City Manager Michael Beck, LA County Sheriff Leroy Baca, Pasadena Chief of Police Phillip Sanchez, Altadena Sheriff Captain Steve McLean, Pasadena Water and Power General Manager Phyllis Currie, Pasadena Superior Judge Philip Soto, and Pasadena City College Superintendent/President Dr. Mark Rocha. 

These dedicated mentors willingly volunteer their time to mentor the Bright Future Scholars individually as well as in groups.

In April, during spring break, scholars attend a Seven-Day Leadership Retreat to our Nation’s Capitol where they have an opportunity to meet one-on-one with legislators, visit the famous Washington landmarks, spend time on Capitol Hill, and interact with youth from all around the world. This trip becomes an unforgettable and life altering experience that enhances their leadership skills and values.

The Quality of Life Center, Inc. is a 501(c)3 Charitable Non-Profit Agency. All contributions are tax-deductible and welcomed! Scholars unable to finance program expenses such as the retreat would certainly appreciate sponsorship assistance.

Insuring that there is a society in which all youth, including Bright Future Scholars, have an equal opportunity, “levels the playing field,” and will make a difference in our future.