WELCOME TO THE SPRING 2026 C.A.M.P. NEWSLETTER

As we step into spring, we are filled with gratitude and excitement for what continues to unfold at C.A.M.P. This season’s newsletter celebrates remarkable student achievements, the power of mentorship, and the incredible community that makes our mission possible. From an unforgettable gala to academic milestones, we invite you to read on and see how your support is shaping futures.

FIRST ANNUAL GALA UPDATE

Exceeding our goals with nearly $270,000 raised 

Our first annual C.A.M.P. gala was nothing short of extraordinary. The energy in the room, the shared commitment to students, and the generosity of our supporters made it a night to remember.  

One of the most powerful moments of the evening was hearing Kenny Peterson’s emotional story, a moving reminder of why access, guidance, and opportunity matter so deeply. We were also incredibly proud of our student and alumni speakers, Jasmine Williams, Carter Demetro, and Justine Chester, who shared their inspirational journeys. Their reflections captured the heart of C.A.M.P., the belief that potential deserves opportunity. 

A heartfelt thank you to Chris Goff and the team at Employers Health for allowing C.A.M.P. to use such a welcoming and inspiring space. We are also deeply grateful to our Gala sponsors, whose generosity made the evening possible: 

Because of this incredible community, the evening resulted in an unbelievable outcome, nearly $270,000 raised to directly support C.A.M.P. students. Every dollar represents belief in our students’ futures, and we cannot thank you enough.

ACT/SAT SCORE UPDATE

Before our students began their focused ACT preparation, average scores were hovering around 20. Today, thanks to consistency, commitment, and expert guidance, our students are now averaging high 20s, with a handful of our C.A.M.P. sophomores already scoring in the 30s. 

This success would not be possible without Beth and Touby at College Planning Alliance, whose dedication to our students continues to pay dividends. The results speak for themselves, opening doors to colleges and scholarships that once felt out of reach. 

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: NOAH SHAHEEN

Noah Shaheen’s journey is a powerful example of what focus and opportunity can achieve. Through strong academics and outstanding ACT performance, Noah earned acceptance to Vanderbilt University, one of the nation’s top institutions.

Q: Why did you choose Vanderbilt? Was it always your goal to attend there?

A: Vanderbilt was not always part of my plan and came into my life unexpectedly, but it quickly proved to be an extraordinary place to learn and grow. Between the strength of its academics, the intensity and pride surrounding its athletic success, unforgettable moments like College GameDay, and the people who push me daily, my freshman year has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. 

Q: What has surprised you the most about college life?  

A: What surprised me most is how often you’re pushed to sit with uncertainty. Instead of being given clear answers, you’re expected to question assumptions and take ownership of your thinking, which has changed how I approach both learning and decision-making. 

Q: How did C.A.M.P. help prepare you for this next step? 

A: C.A.M.P. helped prepare me by building my confidence while also demystifying the entire college process. It gave me the tools to navigate applications, academics, and campus life, so I entered college knowing how to move through the system effectively. 

Q: What are your goals after graduation? 

A: After graduation, my goal is to attend medical school and become a physician. I hope to work in a field where I can combine science, service, and advocacy to make a meaningful impact on patients. 

UPCOMING SEMINARS & CELEBRATIONS 

Mark your calendars! We invite students, families, mentors, and supporters to join us for upcoming seminars, all held from 2 to 4 p.m.: 

• March 15: Communications & Resumes with guest speaker, Michelle Reinsel from The Timken Company
• April 12: Financial Aid Offers & Negotiations  
• May 3: Introducing the Sophomore Class and Pairing Mentors with Graduating Seniors

We are also looking ahead to our Graduation Party on May 31 from 3 to 6 p.m. at La Pizzaria. 

MENTORSHIP IN ACTION 

How Mentorship is Changing Lives 

Tooba Sindhu, a 2025 C.A.M.P. grad, shares how meaningful mentor relationships are helping students gain confidence, explore careers, and envision their futures with clarity. 

Q: How has the mentorship program helped in your transition to college? 

A: My mentor is someone who recently graduated with his degree, and he went to a college that was a similar size to mine. This really helped me connect with my mentor, as I could discuss all the issues of going to a big college: finding a community, rushing to get to the next class, and large class sizes. My mentor was there for me when I had any questions about being at college, whether those questions were about classes, extracurriculars, or my career. 

Q: Why is it important to have a connection with a young professional connected to your field? 

A: Having a young professional is extremely helpful. Someone who was in your spot not too long ago truly understands exactly how you feel and gives great advice. My mentor helped me several times when I was panicking about the job market or classes. He told me that these were things he felt, but that everything turned out okay. Seeing my mentor's success gave me hope that I could get through all the difficulties of an engineering degree as well. 

Q: How would you describe the importance of mentorship? 

A: Mentorship is amazing because it is really a light that guides you. My mentor is the only person that I know who recently graduated with an engineering degree. I do not have anyone else with an engineering degree who can help me. Being able to have someone who can relate to what I am going through is a huge support on its own. Furthermore, I can reach out to my mentor and ask about engineering classes, my resume, and so on. My mentor also helped me navigate homesickness. I am extremely grateful to have a mentor to help me through college. 



 OUR CHALLENGE TO YOU

Help us build an even stronger mentorship program by becoming a mentor. Your experience, guidance, and encouragement can change a student’s trajectory.  

BOARD LEADERSHIP UPDATES 

We extend our deepest gratitude to our outgoing Board members, Steve Burger, Alicia Pucky, and Dr. Betkerur. Thank you for your leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to C.A.M.P. 

We are also excited to welcome our incoming Board members, Jeff Bigler, Molly McDougal, and Dr. Carrilyn Long. Their passion and expertise will help guide C.A.M.P. into its next chapter. 

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: SAVANNA WEBER 

Pursuing a Nursing Degree at Malone University 

Savanna Weber’s journey through C.A.M.P. led her to earn a nursing degree from Malone University, and her story is one of compassion and resilience.  

Q: Why did you choose nursing? 

A: During my junior year, I started dealing with medical issues. My symptoms were atypical, so I wasn’t being helped or advocated for to help me get diagnosed. It was then that I decided I wanted to be a nurse so I could help and advocate for others and ensure they receive the care they deserve regardless of their symptoms.  

Q: How did C.A.M.P. help support your path to graduation?  

A: My biological parents were not in the picture, so I was raised by my grandparents. When it came time, I had no idea how I was going to navigate FAFSA or pay for college. I was able to go to college for free thanks to guidance from C.A.M.P. Because of this program, I learned how to build a resume, got an internship, and had references for scholarships and job applications. I also was able to receive a scholarship from C.A.M.P. that has helped me remain debt-free. I will always be grateful for the program. 

Q: What advice do you have for students considering a career in healthcare? 

A: If you are considering a career in healthcare, I would suggest shadowing a healthcare professional to learn more about it. You can also get your STNA license to get your foot in the door. There will be hard days in healthcare, but just remember how much of a difference you are making in others’ lives, especially those who are at their lowest. 

ACHIEVING ONE OF OUR TOP GOALS: COST-NEUTRAL TUITION

We are proud to share a milestone that once felt aspirational and is now reality: 

13 of the 14 2025 C.A.M.P. graduates are attending college with their tuition fully covered. 

This achievement marks C.A.M.P. providing cost-neutral tuition, removing one of the greatest barriers to higher education. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP

You are an essential part of the C.A.M.P. mission. Here’s how you can get involved: 

• Become a mentor 
• Join the advisory committee 
• Offer job shadowing opportunities 
• Provide internships, co-ops, or summer jobs 
• Make a donation to support current and future students 

Together, we are building pathways, removing barriers, and changing lives, one student at a time. Thank you for being part of the C.A.M.P. community. We couldn’t do this without you.