CAMPUS Celebrates Graduating Seniors and the 20th Anniversary of the Program

The College Achievement and Multicultural Program for Unique Students (CAMPUS), an LCPS academic and college preparatory program that is designed to remove barriers to higher education, particularly for students who will be the first in their families to attend college, celebrated its 115 graduating seniors on Wednesday, May 24 at Briar Woods High School. 

Rae Mitchell, Chief of Schools, gave the introductory remarks and commended the students for their achievements. “You have already shown that you are an inspiration to others, a catalyst for change and an embodiment of hope and perseverance. You understand that education is the one thing no one can take from you. I look forward to the mark you will make in this world.”

This school year marks CAMPUS' 20th anniversary. To celebrate this occasion, guest speakers Charles Smith, a Loudoun Valley High CAMPUS counselor, Sulma Hernandez, a 2018 Loudoun Valley High graduate, a former Loudoun Laurels scholarship recipient and a current Heritage High English learner teacher, and Bruno Yupanqui, a 2010 Dominion High graduate and a member of CAMPUS and a current Dominion High CAMPUS facilitator shared how the program has helped them and LCPS students succeed. 

Following the remarks from the guest speakers, former Virginia Delegate and current Loudoun Laurels Vice Chairman Joe May and Loudoun Laurels Board Member Pat Daly presented Josmar Hernandez Chavez of Woodgrove High with the Loudoun Laurel Stewardship Scholarship Award. 

In introducing Chavez, Daly said he “exemplifies every quality that Loudoun Laurels celebrates in their Laureates. His positive attitude, honesty, tenacity and patience serve him well. Described by his teachers as a positive influence on others, his willingness to work hard will certainly make Loudoun Laurels proud.” Chavez plans to attend Mary Washington University in the fall.

Loudoun Laurels, a local nonprofit that provides mentoring support and scholarships to LCPS students from historically under-served populations, annually awards a $10,000 scholarship to a CAMPUS student. The scholarship is renewable for four years to cover tuition and fees leading to an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university in Virginia.

CAMPUS seniors, each in their graduation robes and mortarboards, were recognized with certificates and gold honor cords to wear at their graduation ceremonies.

For the 2022-23 school year, 625 LCPS students participated in CAMPUS. Participation in CAMPUS includes attending classes at which CAMPUS students learn time management, self-advocacy, leadership and study skills. CAMPUS students also visit colleges and universities and attend career and college preparedness seminars. The CAMPUS program is available to students in grades 9 through 12. Learn more about CAMPUS, including its application process, on the LCPS website.

Published May 30, 2023