2026 LAKISSA BRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP

New for 2026!

Ladders for Leaders is proud to introduce the LaKissa Bright Scholarship, established in honor of our founder, whose vision and dedication have helped connect thousands of students to careers through education, training, and impactful internships.

What began as one mother’s determination to help students gain real-world experience has grown into a program that has transformed the lives of young people across Central Texas. This scholarship recognizes students who embody the spirit of the Ladders for Leaders program by reflecting on their growth, sharing their journey, and inspiring future participants.

2026 LaKissa Bright Scholarship Application

We are now accepting applications for the 2026 award cycle.

To apply, submit a short video (approximately 2 minutes) sharing your experience as a Ladders for Leaders intern. Tell us how the program impacted you, what you learned, and how the experience has influenced your future goals.

Scholarship recipients will be selected based on the quality, authenticity, and impact of their video submission.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be a current or former Ladders for Leaders intern

  • Have graduated high school in Spring or Summer 2026

  • Plan to attend a 2-year college, 4-year university, or trade school in Fall 2026

  • Submit a meaningful and enthusiastic video about their Ladders for Leaders experience

Important Dates

Application Deadline: July 13, 2026

Scholarship Recipients Announced: July 21, 2026, at the Ladders for Leaders Internship Celebration

We encourage applicants to be creative, authentic, and have fun sharing their story. Your experience could inspire the next generation of students as they begin their own career journey.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

 

Congratulations to previous scholarship recipients!

2025 Winners:

Josh Chandra:  LINK TO VIDEO HERE

Gargi Singh:  LINK TO VIDEO HERE

2024 Winners:

Jaya Coats:  LINK TO VIDEO HERE

Shashank Palukuri:  LINK TO VIDEO HERE