As the Class of 2025 closes one chapter and prepares to open another, all of us at Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) couldn’t be prouder. These graduating seniors represent not only academic achievement and career readiness—but the transformative power of opportunity, exposure and support.
From college acceptances and career certifications to full-ride scholarships and personal growth, these students embody the very best of what’s possible when potential is met with guidance.
For many of our seniors, MBRT’s Next Generation Scholars (NGS) program introduced them to ideas and pathways they never thought possible. Whether it was their first visit to a college campus, a first-hand career experience, a connection with a professional mentor, or a hands-on workshop that lit the spark—each saw their future come into focus.
Olivia Stokes has been involved with MBRT programming for the majority of her high school experience. She is an active member of the Next Generation Scholars program at Wicomico High School, a Student Ambassador for three years, while participating in many MBRT college visits, Youth Congress Day and Industry Day events. Her enthusiasm even resulted in an internship, working directly with different members of the MBRT team.
“Olivia is one of the strongest, most dedicated and focused young people I’ve ever met,” says MBRT NGS program manager, Tashe Williams. “She has overcome multiple obstacles throughout her young life, and I could not be prouder than to have worked with her over the last 4 years!”
Olivia will be attending Washington College to pursue a degree in Environmental Science.
Beyond exposure, MBRT provided consistent support that helped students stay on track, build resilience, and pursue high expectations.
When Kamren “Kami” Parker transferred to Kent County High School late in her junior year, she wasn’t sure what her future held. But after joining MBRT’s NGS program, everything changed. With support from advisors, she improved her grades, earned scholarships and ultimately received a full ride scholarship to Mount St. Mary’s University to study music therapy.
“College wouldn’t have been possible for me without my involvement in Next Generation Scholars,” Kami states.
For many MBRT seniors, financial aid and scholarships have been critical in turning college dreams into reality. Luna Infante Reyes, a Caroline County student who plans to study accounting, was awarded the highly competitive Hagan Scholarship, a testament to her academic excellence and relentless drive.
“[The Hagan Scholarship] has a pretty rigorous application,” says Abigail Wittman, MBRT NGS Program Specialist in Caroline County, where Luna resides. “She worked on it a ton with me as well as Colonel Richardson High’s literacy coach – I’m stoked to see her hard work paid off!”
Similarly, Rodney Harris Jr. from Dorchester County earned over $100,000 in scholarships. His MBRT NGS Program Specialist, Voncia Molock, remarked, “I serve as a trusted advisor for his college applications and support his family through the financial aid process. Rodney stays engaged with me as much as he can through email communication.”
Both students are bound for the University of Maryland, College Park, and their journeys reflect not only their hard work, but also the strategic support they received through the MBRT Next Generation Scholars program.
The MBRT college and career programming is not limited to guidance in applications and finances. Through Ciara Ross’ time as an MBRT Student Ambassador from Allegany County, she found community and purpose.
“I loved connecting with others who want to further their education and make an impact in our communities,” Ciara explains.
Inspired by her school’s biomedical science program, Ciara is heading to Washington College to study neuroscience and psychology, with dreams of becoming a neurologist.
These students are more than graduates—they are leaders, dreamers, and difference-makers. Our programming doesn’t just prepare students for college and careers—it empowers them to define their future and find within themselves the ability to rise above barriers.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! Maryland’s future is in capable hands.
We can’t wait to see what’s next.
