THE POWER OF CONNECTION
We are delighted to report that the First Star Network was able to gather in person for our seventh Annual National Conference, from October 18th—20th in Arizona! Co-hosted by our partners at Arizona State University, we spent three fantastic days together exploring the theme of this year’s conference, “The Power of Connection!"
OUR NETWORK CONNECTIONS

During our time together we shared our successes, strengthened our community, and collaborated on our next steps toward our teams' and our brilliant scholars’ bright futures. Alongside Academy Directors from across the country, we were joined by ASU leadership; Sr. Vice President-Educational Outreach and Student Services, Dr. James Rund; Vice President-Outreach Partnerships, Dr. Sharon Smith; the Deputy Vice President of Access ASU, Vanessa Ruiz; and Career Pathways Director, Roger Fisher. We held community dinners, delved into Academy best practices, hosted Q&As with key members of the ASU community and found moments to celebrate our teammates across the country!

OUR ALUMNI CONNECTIONS
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One particular highlight was a talk by talented First Star ASU Alumnus, spoken word poet, and current ASU undergraduate Sam. His moving story, delivered with tremendous skill and passion, served as a captivating reminder of why what we do at First Star matters—and, most importantly, of what we are able to help our First Star Scholars achieve! (Click the link to view his moving speech)
2023 First Star Brilliance Award

We were especially proud to present First Star University of Miami Academy Director Maria Pia de Castro with the 2023 Brilliance Award, honoring those who have gone above and beyond in serving and supporting our scholars. Our longest-serving Academy Director, Maria embodies the values and principles that drive our organization forward. Her tireless efforts and unyielding compassion have touched the lives of many young people and their families. We are fortunate to have Maria as part of our First Star Family.
CONNECT WITH FIRST STAR
Your support helps us continue to work to uplift communities and create change by building strong pathways for hundreds of high school age youth in care to post-secondary education and successful adult lives.
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