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.
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