College Possible Minnesota’s recent celebration for high school seniors, also known as Launch!, was a huge success for students and staff alike. This year’s Launch! event, hosted at the headquarters of Allianz Life Insurance Company in Golden Valley, brought together members of the College Possible staff, as well as four volunteers from the Advisory Board, to honor the incoming college class as they prepare for the next step of their educational journeys.
Throughout the day, students met with their designated coaches for college-readiness advising sessions, while participating juniors got a head start on preparing for the upcoming fall application process. In addition to mapping out their five-year plans, students participated in interactive breakout sessions to discuss potential career paths and receive practical advice on navigating higher education. The air was filled with hope and optimism as student speakers and advisors alike took the stage.
Two College Possible students were selected to give speeches in front of their peers. Alex, a senior from Spring Lake Park High School, emphasized the importance of persevering through the struggles that first-generation college students face. Meanwhile, Videl, a junior from Coon Rapids High School, underscored the power of peer collaboration in achieving common goals.
With 150 students in attendance (91 seniors and 59 juniors), alongside 61 staff members and 16 college panelists, the event was a massive collaborative effort. Events Coordinator Sarah Halverson noted that Launch! was intentionally designed to show students that, “It’s not just your coach who cares about you; a whole team of people are invested in your success.” Highlighting the organization’s holistic approach to student support, Student Advising Specialist Leah Roche also hosted a dedicated Student Parents Workshop during the event.
A highlight of this year’s Launch program was the announcement of this year’s scholarship winners. Five College Possible Minnesota seniors were awarded $1,000 scholarships, while three students won $5,000 and two walked away with $10,000 awards. The atmosphere turned electric as students proudly announced where they will be attending college this fall. Students cheered on scholarship winners, coaches reflected on students’ growth, and community leaders celebrated the impact of mentorship and access to higher education opportunities.
For many students, Launch! represented more than a celebration — it marked the culmination of years of persistence and personal growth. The event highlighted how individualized coaching and strong support systems can help students overcome barriers and pursue ambitious goals. College Possible Minnesota continues to play a critical role in helping first-generation and low-income students navigate the path to college success. Events like Launch! not only celebrate achievements, but also remind students that they belong in higher education spaces and have a community invested in their future.
As graduates left the event wearing college gear and celebrating alongside loved ones, the message of the afternoon was clear; an entire community was cheering them on and will continue to do so throughout their college careers.
College Possible Minnesota would like to thank Allianz Life Company for allowing us to utilize their headquarters in Golden Valley.
