The Live Más Scholarship is more than a check– it’s a community. This summer, over 350 Live Más Scholars from all over the country, including 40 Taco Bell restaurant team members, assembled in San Diego for the Taco Bell Foundation’s annual Summer of Connection.
At the event, scholars learned essential skills and built connections needed to confidently advance their education, careers and passions, all while establishing lasting relationships with peers and mentors. Throughout the week, there were 60+ experiences for scholars to participate in across eight career tracks. Experiences included career development activities, wellness sessions, and community immersion projects with local nonprofit partners.
“I will never forget this thrilling experience that completely shifted my mindset on how I think about my future and the impact I can make […]. Never forget that ‘passion inspires passion,’” said Marisol S. a first time Summer of Connection attendee.
From networking workshops to passion pitch presentations, there wasn’t a dull moment. As always, the scholars brought an infectious energy, enjoying pool parties, Lego® workshops, taekwondo, taco trucks, and a beloved beach party, featuring performances by a scholar-formed band.
Attendees also heard from an impressive lineup of guest speakers, including inspiring conversations led by award-winning event strategist and community organizer Deesha Dyer, and an uplifting keynote led by bestselling author and TV host Sebastian Terry. Students were inspired during Community Immersions, a chance to work with our Community Grants partners on causes they are passionate about. Eight scholars participated in Passion Pitches, a favorite Summer of Connection program, in which scholars shared their passion in a 3-minute presentation for a chance to receive coaching and project funding.
“[Summer of Connection’s] ability to spread love and positivity is something that we deeply appreciate and aspire to emulate,” said Laila Abed, Live Más Scholar and winner of the Passion Pitch competition. “The environment fostered was not only educational but also incredibly nurturing and supportive.”
A special shoutout to the newly launched Live Más Scholarship Alumni Leadership Council, which was instrumental in developing programming and promoting alumni-forward initiatives for the 95 current Live Más Scholarship alumni members. Every year, the Live Más Scholarship community grows in ambition and inspiration. We can’t wait to witness the successes that lie ahead for this one-of-a-kind community.
Our next round of Live Más Scholarship applications opens in November – sign up to receive updates at LiveMasScholarship.com and check out our video recap below!
The Taco Bell Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity. For more information visit www.tacobellfoundation.org