CSF–Spokane Hosts 10th Annual College Signing Day
College Success Foundation–Spokane proudly hosted its 10th annual College Signing Day event on May 13, 2025, at Gonzaga University. More than 150 high school seniors from throughout the Spokane region were joined by their families, mentors and community members to celebrate their acceptance into colleges and universities around the country.
The event emcee was Jenny Power, a WSU alum and first-generation college graduate who now works at KHQ in Spokane. After thanking the event’s sponsors, Jenny shared welcoming remarks to the students and their families as they look toward this important next step. “Support of our scholars is not just about the hope and optimism that transcends across the college campuses,” she said. “It is also about our entire community coming together to say to you, as scholars, ‘we believe in you’!”
Jaime Stacy, founder of Strong Women Achieving Greatness (SWAG), spoke at the event for the second year in a row, sharing words of inspiration and support with the students. She emphasized the importance of self-regulation, self-care and maintaining community ties: “You are a part of a community, and when your cup gets empty, you seek support from your community.” Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown also spoke, proclaiming May 13 College Signing Day in Spokane.
Hands down, though, the highlight of the evening was the students, who signed a college banner — a tradition at this annual event — and announced their college plans for fall to the enthusiastic cheers of the audience. They also received College Ready Packs, CSF-branded backpacks filled with supplies and a $50 gift card to help them get their postsecondary educational journeys off to a good start. Six lucky students also received $500 scholarships after their names were drawn by Dr. Lori Hunt, CSF–Spokane board chair.
CSF Scholar Anthony described the energy and sense of excitement throughout the room. “College Signing Day means so much — every student should have this type of celebration!” he said. “It was so awesome to meet new people who are also attending the same college as I am in the fall and begin to make those connections already. It makes you super excited for what comes next.”
CSF–Spokane Executive Director Shannon Demant rounded out the evening with touching words for the students to keep in mind as they head off to college: “The path ahead will present challenges, yes, but also incredible opportunities. And we are confident that you will meet them with courage, creativity, and purpose,” she said. “You will be the ones to reimagine what is possible, to solve the pressing issues, and to build a more compassionate, just, and sustainable world. As you take the next steps on your journey, know that you do not walk alone. Your families, your teachers & mentors, and this entire community stand beside you with pride and unwavering belief in your abilities.”
We’d like to thank our event sponsors and partners for making this special celebration possible through their generous financial and in-kind support. We are so grateful for all you do to move to our scholars’ promising futures forward.
