From Connections to Careers: Celebrating 10 Years | Denver Scholarship Foundation

Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) recently hosted the Gathering of Gratitude Breakfast and 10th Annual Scholar Summit, bringing DSF Scholars and Alumni, Named Scholarship Donors, and dedicated supporters together. Held in early March, at the one and only Empower Field at Mile High, this event is designed to help DSF Scholars and Alumni grow their personal and professional skills while making meaningful connections with other DSF Scholars and Alumni and community leaders.  

This year, we continued to surpass our attendance record, welcoming an impressive 336 attendees. Among them were DSF Scholars and Alumni, alongside DSF Named Scholarship Donors, DSF Board and Associate Board Members, DSF Alumni Advisory Committee members, Corporate Partners, and dedicated DSF staff. 

The morning started with the privilege of hearing from Dahni Austin, DSF Scholar supported by the U.S. Bank, who shared her college journey at the University of Colorado Boulder majoring in Accounting and Real Estate along with a double minor in Multicultural Leadership Studies and Music. “Scholarships, like the Denver Scholarship Foundation, have been instrumental in making opportunities like this possible,” shared Dahni. “My DSF College Advisor and DSF Future Center at Dr. Marin Luther King Jr Early College have not only provided financial support but also connected me with guidance and resources that helped me navigate my academic path. Their investment in my education has inspired me to push forward, excel in my studies, and give back to my community by creating more opportunities for underrepresented students.” 

Marcia Romero, Vice President of Community Development/Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility at U.S. Bank in Colorado and New Mexico, also shared her story and how her values align with DSF. She also highlighted how U.S. Bank’s focus on providing access to education works hand in hand with its dedication to making college possible for students in the Denver community. 

Guided by this year’s conference theme, “From Connections to Careers,” DSF Scholars and Alumni participated in a variety of sessions to equip them with tools and resources to leverage networking and storytelling for career advancement and personal growth! 

This year’s facilitators were champions of networking and storytelling!  

Sessions included:  

High Key Connect: How to Rizz Up Your Network

Career Networking: Led by Sara Golditch, DSF Corporate Relations and Volunteer Manager, this session provided DSF Scholars and Alumni with the opportunity to connect with professionals from various industries including technology, healthcare, finance, marketing, and more. Students explored career options, sought advice and learned about potential career paths from experienced professionals in the community.  

NetWorking Knowledge: Turning Connections into Careers: Led by Kevin McNulty DSF Career & Applied Pathways Manager and Ryan Burton, DSF Executive Doctoral Resident, this session introduced students to the fundamentals of networking. DSF Scholars learned to recognize and leverage their existing networks to advance their careers, leaving with a broader professional circle to support their professional and personal growth.  

High Key Connect: How to Rizz Up Your Network: Led by DSF Alum and College Advisor at John F. Kennedy High School Miguel Banuelos-Garcia, this interactive session blended the art of modern networking by blending their authentic rizz (charisma) with strategic connection-building skills! Students learn how to leave memorable first impressions by staying genuine and adding value to their networks.  

Through Voice, We Live: Led by DSF Alum and Chief of Programs and Partnerships (Amplifier) at YEBO Cristina Chacon, CEO of YEBO (Chief Plug) Cory Montalvo, and Youth Consultant (Growing Storyteller) Isaura Ibarra Ramirez, this a two-part session that explored the art of authentic storytelling and learn how to confidently answer, “Tell me about Yourself” question. DSF Scholars and Alumni engaged in interactive activities to truly reflect on their identity, connect with their cultural roots and craft personal narratives. With YEBO’s unique approach to intergenerational storytelling, this experience allowed students to gain the confidence to share their voices with confidence and pride.

DSF Scholars touring Empower Field at Mile High

The day concluded with a special session featuring professionals from the Denver Broncos, who shared insights into their career journeys, and DSF Scholars, Alumni and Staff had the unique opportunity to tour the stadium. 

Each year the success of this event is a testament to the unwavering support of all attendees, volunteers, and panelists who generously contributed their time, expertise and enthusiasm to support Denver graduates. Together, we to continue to help local students develop the skills they need to achieve their goals and build a brighter future!