Scholars Give Back & Look Forward at Envision U

Envision U kicked off on June 22 as scholars arrived at Saint Louis University for a weeklong, college-immersion experience. Participants settled into SLU residence halls, where they would live, learn, and connect throughout the June 22–26 event.

Scholars came from across the U.S. and Latin America—including Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans, St. Louis, Cleveland, Denver, and Guatemala—bringing a vibrant mix of perspectives and experiences to the program.

Throughout the week, they would take part in workshops, service opportunities, networking events, and college-prep activities designed to equip them with the tools and confidence to pursue their post-secondary goals.

We are deeply grateful to Saint Louis University for their partnership and hospitality in making this transformational experience possible.

Envision U Began on Monday with inspiring presentations by Dr. Art McCoy, distinguished fellow and superintendent-in-residence at SLU’s School of Education, and Tracie Berry-McGhee, founder of the I Define Me Movement. Dr. McCoy spoke on building a legacy, while Berry-McGhee encouraged scholars to uncover and live their purpose.

Dr. Art McCoy speaks to scholars on building a legacy.

In the afternoon, scholars participated in service projects at local organizations including St. Joseph Housing Initiative, the International Institute of St. Louis, Rogers Middle School Garden, and Mathews-Dickey Club. The volunteer day emphasized leadership through service, reflecting Hope Ignites’ mission to nurture not only college-bound scholars, but also compassionate, community-minded leaders.

Tracie Berry-McGhee leads the scholars in a Joy Cypher activity

“The Hope Ignites mission links purpose, achievement, and service together inextricably,” said Brian Hipp, Vice President of Mission Effectiveness at Hope Ignites. “At Envision U, our scholars envision and activate their bright futures in light of the communities they hold dear and the positive contributions they yearn to make.”

The day ended with a community dinner at Hope Ignites’ Network Headquarters and a debrief of the community service experience led by Bryan Sokol, Associate Professor of Psychology and Community Engagement Fellow for the Hermann Center at SLU. 

Scholars do volunteer work at the Rogers Middle School Urban Garden

Scholars enjoy at dinner at the Network Headquarters office

Tuesday opened with a keynote from Bobby Herrera, Hope Ignites board member, President of Populus Group, and author of The Gift of Struggle. He shared his personal journey growing up as the child of immigrants and how those experiences shaped his leadership and success. Scholars received copies of his book, which he then signed.

The day continued with Networking Night at Edward Jones Headquarters. Jessica Bryant, Talent Acquisition Team Leader at Edward Jones, kicked things off with a workshop on networking and building a personal brand—both in person and online.

Scholars then put their new skills to work, connecting with Edward Jones professionals, Hope Ignites board members, and other community leaders. The evening fostered meaningful conversations and lasting connections for both scholars and guests.

Bobby Herrera signs copies of his book

Jessica Bryant speaks to scholars on professionalism and personal brand

Scholars practice their networking skills at Edward Jones Headquarters

Angelique Albert, CEO of the Native Forward Scholars Fund and board member of the Johnson Scholarship Foundation, inspired scholars with a talk on embracing authenticity while charting their futures.

Following the keynote, participants toured the Saint Louis University campus and attended breakout sessions led by college admissions professionals. Topics included navigating the application process, understanding recent changes to diversity admissions, and exploring funding options.

Scholars speak with an admissions representative from Boston College

Later, scholars attended a college fair featuring representatives from top institutions including:
Dominican University, Saint Louis University, Washington University in St. Louis, Tulane University, University of Missouri, Missouri S&T, Boston College, Emerson College, Wake Forest University, Smith College, Miami University, Vanderbilt University, Syracuse University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, University of Denver, and Harris-Stowe State University.

“Spending a week living on a college campus and engaging with representatives from universities across the country is a life-changing experience for our scholars,” said Kristin Ostby, President and CEO of Hope Ignites. “It makes college feel not only possible, but real. These young people bring incredible motivation, grit, and talent—and this week marks a powerful milestone on their path to becoming the leaders our communities need.” 

That evening, students presented their capstone projects, reflecting on what they had learned, how they had grown, and how they are preparing to ignite their futures.

Scholars reflect on the week with a Grow & Glow reflection

On the final day of Envision U, scholars toured Washington University in St. Louis before departing for home, leaving inspired, empowered, and one step closer to realizing their dreams.