11th annual Scholar Summit

In this two-part session, through engaging activities and guided reflection, Scholars and Alumni will learn how to generate bold ideas, uncover various life & career possibilities, and lead themselves with clarity and intention. Grounded in life design principles, Scholars and Alumni will explore what is possible and design multiple paths forward with confidence and purpose.

About Kevin

Kevin McNulty is from various places in the United States but has called Colorado home for the past 14 years. Kevin received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Colorado-Boulder. Kevin served as a City Year Corps Member at North High from 2011-2012 and then taught 7th grade Social Studies at Noel Community Arts School as a teaching fellow from 2012-2013. Kevin went on to earn his Master’s in Education from the University of Colorado-Denver. He taught for 2 years at PREP Academy in DPS. Kevin also has worked as Career Coach for CDLE and most recently assisted in running a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor2.0 program at Englewood High School.

Kevin’s passion for educational advising stems from his desire to empower students to challenge systems of power and privilege and navigate a 21st century world so students can continuously design the life of their dreams. Outside of work Kevin enjoys skiing, hiking, live music, traveling, and learning about new cultures. Kevin also has deep passion for environmental and social justice, career development coaching, history, and simply learning.

About Miguel

A proud Denver native and product of Denver Public Schools, Miguel Bañuelos-Garcia brings both lived experience and deep rooted passion to his work in education. After graduating from CEC Early College and earning his bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Colorado State University, Miguel returned to his community with one goal: to help first-generation students like himself dream big and build the tools to get there.

As a DSF Scholar turned professional, Miguel knows firsthand the power of access, representation, and support. His journey fuels his commitment to advancing equity and opportunity for students navigating their own postsecondary paths.

Miguel is known for his student-centered mindset, collaborative spirit, and ability to turn big ideas into action. Whether he’s connecting with students, colleagues, or community partners, he leads with purpose, heart, and a relentless belief in what’s possible.

Life doesn’t come with a clear plan, especially when you’re figuring out college, careers, identity, and what comes next. This session is a grounded, interactive space to talk about what it really means to keep going when things feel uncertain. Together, we’ll name common experiences like fear, pressure, distraction, and the feeling that everyone else has it figured out. You’ll explore simple ways to stay grounded, notice what’s already working, and practice boldness through small, realistic steps. Boldness here isn’t about automatic confidence, extroversion, or having all the answers. It’s about continuing to show up with intention and self-trust. This session is relaxed and reflective. You can listen, participate, or simply take what feels helpful. No pressure. No fixing. Just space to feel less alone and more capable of moving forward at your own pace.

About Dominique

Dominique is a first-generation college graduate and Denver Scholarship Foundation alum and mentor. Born and raised in North Denver, she attended CEC Early College, earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Colorado State University, and completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Her educational journey has shaped a strong commitment to equity, access, and student success. Dominique currently serves as Program Manager for the First-generation and Multicultural (FaM) Business Program at the University of Colorado Denver, where she supports students through mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness programming. Her work centers on creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to navigate higher education with confidence and integrity. She is currently pursuing a certificate in nonprofit management to further strengthen her skills in program management and social impact work.

Money is a tool that can help you fuel your purpose and claim your power. Led through the lens of financial planning, this interactive session explores how intentional decision-making and self-awareness can help you shape a thriving future. Scholars and Alumni will discover how to approach financial challenges as growth opportunities, make values-driven choices, and step boldly into their unique journey when the path ahead isn’t fully clear. Join us to gain practical takeaways for leading your life with purpose and financial confidence.

About Brandon

Brandon Tate is a licensed financial services professional for Charles Schwab, where he is currently gaining the experience hours needed to become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). A proud DSF Alum and graduate of Martin Luther King Jr. Early College, Brandon earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Financial Planning from Colorado State University.

Driven by a passion for financial literacy, Brandon is dedicated to helping others overcome socioeconomic obstacles and achieve financial freedom. He began his professional career as a commercial insurance underwriter, specializing in risk management solutions for financial institutions. After discovering his purpose, he took a leap of faith and changed careers so that he could work directly with individuals and communities in a way that aligns more with his passion. Brandon currently serves as the Treasurer for the DSF Alumni Advisory Council (AAC). Alongside supporting DSF, in his free time he loves attending live concerts with his wife, working out, and listening to audiobooks and podcasts at 2x speed.

In this inspiring session, Perla, who has navigated unexpected career twists, shares how courage, resilience and purpose can turn uncertainty into momentum. Scholars and Alumni will feel motivated to explore how to face challenges head-on, trust themselves through transitions, and step boldly into their next chapter.

About Perla

Born in Mexico and raised in Colorado, Perla Bustillos has built her career around designing and managing experiences that strengthen community connection and engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Event and Meeting Management from Metropolitan State University of Denver, where her passion for community, operations, and hospitality first took shape. Perla’s dedication to creating spaces where people feel supported is deeply rooted in her lived experience navigating responsibility, resilience, and ambition as an undocumented immigrant and oldest daughter.

Inspired by mentors who believed in her potential and by her own journey through higher education and professional leadership, Perla has built a career centered on service, strategy, and intentional design. She is the Founder and CEO of Inspirada Co., an event planning company built to design and execute meaningful gatherings that inspire connection and transformation. Through her work, Perla empowers leaders and organizations by leading with empathy, excellence, and purpose.

Moderated by DSF Chief Impact Officer Nate Cadena, this session brings together three dynamic presenters who will share how lived experiences have shaped their sense of purpose and strengthened their boldness. Through an interactive gallery walk and engaging mini-presentations, presenters will showcase meaningful items that represent pivotal moments, personal growth, and the courage to take next steps. Scholars and Alumni will be encouraged to connect with presenters, reflect on their own journeys, and recognize how their experiences can be powerful guides and fuel for purpose-driven and bold futures.

About Ambria

A native of Denver, Colorado, Ambria attended East High School and then furthered her education at Colorado State University. As a recipient of the rigorous Reishers Scholarship and the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) Scholarship, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies and Spanish with a concentration in Intervention and Prevention Sciences. She gained a passion for cultural immersion by working with diverse populations and studied abroad in San Sebastian, Spain. Her commitment toward social justice and interacting with students after graduation led her back to the Denver Scholarship Foundation. As a DSF Alumna, Ambria gives back to DSF and seeks to make positive impact on students and their futures.

About Ismael

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Ismael A.K.A “Smiley” moved to this colorful Colorado land he now calls home. After completing his bachelor’s degree in biblical studies at Dallas Christian College, he served as outreach minister to the Latino community in Longmont, Colorado. He then transferred his passion to serving underrepresented communities in Southwest Denver for the Denver District Attorney’s Office. As a community organizer he realized the importance a high quality education plays for communities of color. He then dedicated 15 years at the Community College of Denver, focusing on overcoming educational barriers for limited income students. Ismael is perhaps most proud of serving as a founding board member of Strive Prep Schools in Denver, providing a high quality education to every child where they live. Ismael wears a beaming smile knowing he is inspiring young scholars to succeed in college, careers, and life as a leader of the TRIO team at DSF.

About Leslie

Leslie was raised in far Northeast Denver and graduated from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early College -Go Warriors! Then received her Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies as a first-generation student at Colorado State University -Go Rams! Her passion for working with students derives from the hard work her immigrant parents put into ensuring the success of their children. She has always wanted to work to make sure the path to higher education is easy and accessible to all students.

About Nate

For many years, Nate has dedicated his professional career path on the social and academic advancement of Denver’s students. As a born and raised Coloradoan, Nate has worked in education for over fifteen years within community colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. He has served professionally as a career counselor, professional trainer, advisor/instructor, financial aid administrator, and director of both college access and success programs. Nathan is a proud TRIO Upward Bound Alum, holds a certificate in Global Career Development Facilitation, a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Colorado State University, and a Master of Education degree from Regis University. In his leisure time, Nathan enjoys spending time with his family and supporting Colorado sports teams.

In this two-part session, through engaging activities and guided reflection, Scholars and Alumni will learn how to generate bold ideas, uncover various life & career possibilities, and lead themselves with clarity and intention. Grounded in life design principles, Scholars and Alumni will explore what is possible and design multiple paths forward with confidence and purpose.

About Kevin

Kevin McNulty is from various places in the United States but has called Colorado home for the past 14 years. Kevin received his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Colorado-Boulder. Kevin served as a City Year Corps Member at North High from 2011-2012 and then taught 7th grade Social Studies at Noel Community Arts School as a teaching fellow from 2012-2013. Kevin went on to earn his Master’s in Education from the University of Colorado-Denver. He taught for 2 years at PREP Academy in DPS. Kevin also has worked as Career Coach for CDLE and most recently assisted in running a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor2.0 program at Englewood High School.

Kevin’s passion for educational advising stems from his desire to empower students to challenge systems of power and privilege and navigate a 21st century world so students can continuously design the life of their dreams. Outside of work Kevin enjoys skiing, hiking, live music, traveling, and learning about new cultures. Kevin also has deep passion for environmental and social justice, career development coaching, history, and simply learning.

About Miguel

A proud Denver native and product of Denver Public Schools, Miguel Bañuelos-Garcia brings both lived experience and deep rooted passion to his work in education. After graduating from CEC Early College and earning his bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Colorado State University, Miguel returned to his community with one goal: to help first-generation students like himself dream big and build the tools to get there.

As a DSF Scholar turned professional, Miguel knows firsthand the power of access, representation, and support. His journey fuels his commitment to advancing equity and opportunity for students navigating their own postsecondary paths.

Miguel is known for his student-centered mindset, collaborative spirit, and ability to turn big ideas into action. Whether he’s connecting with students, colleagues, or community partners, he leads with purpose, heart, and a relentless belief in what’s possible.

Life doesn’t come with a clear plan, especially when you’re figuring out college, careers, identity, and what comes next. This session is a grounded, interactive space to talk about what it really means to keep going when things feel uncertain. Together, we’ll name common experiences like fear, pressure, distraction, and the feeling that everyone else has it figured out. You’ll explore simple ways to stay grounded, notice what’s already working, and practice boldness through small, realistic steps. Boldness here isn’t about automatic confidence, extroversion, or having all the answers. It’s about continuing to show up with intention and self-trust. This session is relaxed and reflective. You can listen, participate, or simply take what feels helpful. No pressure. No fixing. Just space to feel less alone and more capable of moving forward at your own pace.

About Dominique

Dominique is a first-generation college graduate and Denver Scholarship Foundation alum and mentor. Born and raised in North Denver, she attended CEC Early College, earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Colorado State University, and completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Her educational journey has shaped a strong commitment to equity, access, and student success. Dominique currently serves as Program Manager for the First-generation and Multicultural (FaM) Business Program at the University of Colorado Denver, where she supports students through mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness programming. Her work centers on creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to navigate higher education with confidence and integrity. She is currently pursuing a certificate in nonprofit management to further strengthen her skills in program management and social impact work.

Money is a tool that can help you fuel your purpose and claim your power. Led through the lens of financial planning, this interactive session explores how intentional decision-making and self-awareness can help you shape a thriving future. Scholars and Alumni will discover how to approach financial challenges as growth opportunities, make values-driven choices, and step boldly into their unique journey when the path ahead isn’t fully clear. Join us to gain practical takeaways for leading your life with purpose and financial confidence.

About Brandon

Brandon Tate is a licensed financial services professional for Charles Schwab, where he is currently gaining the experience hours needed to become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). A proud DSF Alum and graduate of Martin Luther King Jr. Early College, Brandon earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Financial Planning from Colorado State University.

Driven by a passion for financial literacy, Brandon is dedicated to helping others overcome socioeconomic obstacles and achieve financial freedom. He began his professional career as a commercial insurance underwriter, specializing in risk management solutions for financial institutions. After discovering his purpose, he took a leap of faith and changed careers so that he could work directly with individuals and communities in a way that aligns more with his passion. Brandon currently serves as the Treasurer for the DSF Alumni Advisory Council (AAC). Alongside supporting DSF, in his free time he loves attending live concerts with his wife, working out, and listening to audiobooks and podcasts at 2x speed.

In this inspiring session, Perla, who has navigated unexpected career twists, shares how courage, resilience and purpose can turn uncertainty into momentum. Scholars and Alumni will feel motivated to explore how to face challenges head-on, trust themselves through transitions, and step boldly into their next chapter.

About Perla

Born in Mexico and raised in Colorado, Perla Bustillos has built her career around designing and managing experiences that strengthen community connection and engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Event and Meeting Management from Metropolitan State University of Denver, where her passion for community, operations, and hospitality first took shape. Perla’s dedication to creating spaces where people feel supported is deeply rooted in her lived experience navigating responsibility, resilience, and ambition as an undocumented immigrant and oldest daughter.

Inspired by mentors who believed in her potential and by her own journey through higher education and professional leadership, Perla has built a career centered on service, strategy, and intentional design. She is the Founder and CEO of Inspirada Co., an event planning company built to design and execute meaningful gatherings that inspire connection and transformation. Through her work, Perla empowers leaders and organizations by leading with empathy, excellence, and purpose.

Moderated by DSF Chief Impact Officer Nate Cadena, this session brings together three dynamic presenters who will share how lived experiences have shaped their sense of purpose and strengthened their boldness. Through an interactive gallery walk and engaging mini-presentations, presenters will showcase meaningful items that represent pivotal moments, personal growth, and the courage to take next steps. Scholars and Alumni will be encouraged to connect with presenters, reflect on their own journeys, and recognize how their experiences can be powerful guides and fuel for purpose-driven and bold futures.

About Ambria

A native of Denver, Colorado, Ambria attended East High School and then furthered her education at Colorado State University. As a recipient of the rigorous Reishers Scholarship and the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) Scholarship, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies and Spanish with a concentration in Intervention and Prevention Sciences. She gained a passion for cultural immersion by working with diverse populations and studied abroad in San Sebastian, Spain. Her commitment toward social justice and interacting with students after graduation led her back to the Denver Scholarship Foundation. As a DSF Alumna, Ambria gives back to DSF and seeks to make positive impact on students and their futures.

About Ismael

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Ismael A.K.A “Smiley” moved to this colorful Colorado land he now calls home. After completing his bachelor’s degree in biblical studies at Dallas Christian College, he served as outreach minister to the Latino community in Longmont, Colorado. He then transferred his passion to serving underrepresented communities in Southwest Denver for the Denver District Attorney’s Office. As a community organizer he realized the importance a high quality education plays for communities of color. He then dedicated 15 years at the Community College of Denver, focusing on overcoming educational barriers for limited income students. Ismael is perhaps most proud of serving as a founding board member of Strive Prep Schools in Denver, providing a high quality education to every child where they live. Ismael wears a beaming smile knowing he is inspiring young scholars to succeed in college, careers, and life as a leader of the TRIO team at DSF.

About Leslie

Leslie was raised in far Northeast Denver and graduated from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early College -Go Warriors! Then received her Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies as a first-generation student at Colorado State University -Go Rams! Her passion for working with students derives from the hard work her immigrant parents put into ensuring the success of their children. She has always wanted to work to make sure the path to higher education is easy and accessible to all students.

About Nate

For many years, Nate has dedicated his professional career path on the social and academic advancement of Denver’s students. As a born and raised Coloradoan, Nate has worked in education for over fifteen years within community colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations. He has served professionally as a career counselor, professional trainer, advisor/instructor, financial aid administrator, and director of both college access and success programs. Nathan is a proud TRIO Upward Bound Alum, holds a certificate in Global Career Development Facilitation, a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Colorado State University, and a Master of Education degree from Regis University. In his leisure time, Nathan enjoys spending time with his family and supporting Colorado sports teams.

Join us for a dynamic networking opportunity designed for Scholars and Alumni to connect with professionals from the Denver metro area. There will be over 30 professionals present, and you will have the opportunity to connect with 7 during 10-minute rotations. This portion of the day offers the opportunity to meet individuals working across a wide range of roles and industries, including tech, healthcare, finance, marketing, and more. Whether you’re exploring career options or seeking advice, this is a great chance to build valuable connections, ask questions, and learn about potential career paths from experienced professionals in the local community.