PASADENA, CA – 09/12/2025 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and advanced learners, has selected 26 winners for this year’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB). This national award program, founded 24 years ago, is the only merit-based, need-blind scholarship recognizing exceptional academic achievement in gifted seventh graders.

The Caroline D. Bradley Scholars, Class of 2030, receive a prestigious four-year scholarship that covers full high school tuition at an optimally matched school or through an individualized education plan. Scholars also benefit from ongoing, personalized counseling and educational advocacy provided by IEA.

Hailing from across the U.S., this year’s Scholars are dedicated community members, passionate learners and leaders among their peers. They are multi-talented musicians, math champions, poets, authors, researchers and athletes.  

“Every Caroline D. Bradley Scholar was chosen because of their extraordinary intellectual curiosity, leadership, and dedication to making a difference,” said Deborah Monroe, IEA President. “From excelling academically to pursuing their passions, they embody the qualities of a Scholar—bright, driven, and deeply committed to using their talents to impact the world.”

Interested seventh grade students apply for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship and complete a rigorous portfolio application process, which includes essays, middle school transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a work sample. The application for the 2031 Class of Caroline D. Bradley Scholars will be available in late fall.

Caroline D. Bradley Scholars Class of 2030

Thira Ager – San Luis Obispo, CA
Aiden An – Los Angeles, CA
Juliette Benadon – Sherman Oaks, CA
Audrey Choi – Burlingame, CA
Jason Dong – Iowa City, IA
Cameron Fullhart – Fort Wayne, IN
Sofia Grandis-Oliveira – Los Gatos, CA
Charlotte Hall – North Easton, MA
Ryan Hardy – Atlanta, GA
Santiago Hermez – Pasadena, CA
Landon Ifill – New Rochelle, NY
Charles Inglis – Hingham, MA
Simone Kadlec – Milwaukee, WI
Zenith Kwong – Pinole, CA
Ensley Lansford – Southport, CT
Pranshi Mehta – Austin, TX
Melanie Mendoza – South Gate, CA
Baxter Oates – Brooklyn, NY
Drake Prater – Tyrone, GA
James Rogers – Clayton, MO
Olivia Ryerson – Philadelphia, PA
Cori Tanner – Decatur, GA
Dyer Thompson – Carmel, IN
Emma Trejo – Cypress, TX
Sade Uzodinma – Houston, TX
Edward Fu – Sugar Land, TX

About IEA

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

About the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program

IEA’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program is one of the few U.S. high school scholarship programs that is need-blind and awarded solely on the basis of merit to highly gifted seventh graders. Since its inception in 2002, the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship has served over 425 students with academic and personal support, high school tuition and a lifelong network for mentorship and peer connections. The award is generously funded by the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation.

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PASADENA, CA – 06/30/2025 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and advanced learners, is proud to announce the selection of 54 outstanding middle school students as finalists for its Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB) national award program. Now in its 24th year, this national award program is the only merit-based, need-blind scholarship recognizing exceptional academic achievement in gifted seventh graders.

This year’s finalists were selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants representing every region of the United States. They demonstrate exceptional promise and passion across a wide range of academic interests including astrophysics, robotics, music composition, and animal welfare. Finalists who are not selected as Scholars will receive a $1,000 award to support their continued academic and intellectual development. In addition, all finalists are invited to one of IEA’s Yunasa summer camps in 2026 at a special finalist-only rate where they will have the opportunity to grow personally, explore their interests, and connect with other gifted youth.

“These 54 students represent the very best of our nation’s gifted students. They are bright, driven and curious thinkers who are already using their talents to change the world,” said Deborah Monroe, IEA President. “We are honored to recognize and celebrate this exceptional group of middle school students.”

Caroline D. Bradley Scholars receive a prestigious four-year scholarship that covers full high school tuition at an optimally matched school or through an individualized education plan. Scholars also benefit from ongoing, personalized counseling and educational advocacy provided by IEA. 

Interested seventh grade students apply for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship and complete a rigorous portfolio application process, which includes essays, middle school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a work sample. Eligible applicants must also achieve scores at the highest level on nationally normed standardized tests. The finalists will move on to the next round in the application process; the CDB award winners will be announced in the fall.

2025 Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program Finalists

Thira Ager – San Luis Obispo, CA
Aryav Ahuja – Santa Clara, CA
Aiden An – Los Angeles, CA
Juliette Benadon – Sherman Oaks, CA
Katerina Borbat – Rye, NY
Taj Brandon – Palo Alto, CA
Alexander Braun – Mountain View, CA
Theodore Carmichael-Watanabe – Seattle, WA
Pradyun Chavan – Sierra Madre, CA
Audrey Choi – Burlingame, CA
Jason Dong – Iowa City, IA
Edward Fu – Sugar Land, TX
Reika Fukushima – Costa Mesa, CA
Cameron Fullhart – Fort Wayne, IN
Amanda Gao – Saint Paul, MN
Sofia Grandis-Oliveira – Los Gatos, CA
Charlotte Hall North – Easton, MA
Ryan Hardy – Atlanta, GA
Santiago Hermez – Pasadena, CA
Landon Ifill – New Rochelle, NY
Charles Inglis – Hingham, MA
Neil Iyer – Irvine, CA
Simone Kadlec – Milwaukee, WI
Donghyeon Kim – Fremont, CA
Sophia Krum – Arcadia, CA
Zenith Kwong – Pinole, CA
Ensley Lansford – Southport, CT
Andrew Lau – Sugar Land, TX
Sophia Lei – Cincinnati, OH
Ness Leitman – Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Emma Lu – Shoreview, MN
Shriya Madhavan – Highlands Ranch, CO
Pranshi Mehta – Austin, TX
Melanie Mendoza – South Gate, CA
Deston Nangoy – Shelby Township, MI
Menkyi Nyinda – Louisville, CO
Baxter Oates – Brooklyn, NY
Ashvita Prasankumar – Albuquerque, NM
Drake Prater – Tyrone, GA
Tara Prawira – Bismarck, ND
James Rogers – Clayton, MO
Coralie Rossbach – West Lake Hills, TX
Olivia Ryerson – Philadelphia, PA
Nishank Seth – Vienna, VA
Cori Tanner – Decatur, GA
Emma Teng – Foster City, CA
Dyer Thompson – Carmel, IN
Emma Trejo – Cypress, TX
Sade Uzodinma – Houston, TX
Nora Whitman – Lafayette, LA
Mia Wojcik – Orlando, FL
Madissen Wu – Sammamish, WA
Ryan Yin – Ashburn, VA
Moxi Zhu – Campbell, CA

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

About the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program

IEA’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program is one of the few U.S. high school scholarship programs that is need-blind and awarded solely on the basis of merit to highly gifted seventh graders. Since its inception in 2002, the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship has served over 425 students with academic and personal support, high school tuition and a lifelong network for mentorship and peer connections. The award is generously funded by the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation.

Thank you for your service, Jeff!

We are deeply grateful to Jeffrey Hudson for more than 15 years of dedicated service to IEA including his leadership as a board member and Chairman of the Board. Jeff’s steady guidance, openness to new ideas, and enduring commitment to IEA’s mission have been instrumental in shaping the organization’s growth. His inspiring collaborative spirit and belief in the potential of young people have left a lasting impact on our staff, families and the gifted students we serve.

Jeff is an accomplished operations and project management professional whose career spans over two decades across engineering, entertainment, and education sectors. Most recently, he served as Director of Operations for the California office of Celtic Engineering, Inc. Prior to that, he held leadership roles at TMT International Observatory, LLC—an independent Caltech laboratory—as well as at Walt Disney Imagineering, The Walt Disney Company, and Disney Entertainment.

Jeff brought to IEA a deep well of experience in finance, human resources and large-scale project management. His strategic thinking and dedication to innovation earned him the respect not only of colleagues across industries but also of his fellow board members and the IEA staff.

As Jeff concludes his term on the IEA Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt thanks for his many years of service and leadership. We wish Jeff, his wife Krystiel and their son Turner many more exciting adventures ahead and continued success in all future endeavors.

Welcome, Cheryl!

A seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience guiding global business transformations across a wide range of industries including finance, healthcare, logistics and consulting, Cheryl Dong brings strategic insight and a deep appreciation for the power of community.

She currently serves as Program Manager and Assistant Vice President at Capital Group, where she leads large-scale initiatives focused on innovation, efficiency and impact. While much of her career has centered on creating new revenue streams and scaling operations, Cheryl is most inspired by helping others see possibility in change and empowering individuals to recognize their unique potential.

Originally from China, Cheryl holds degrees from Zhejiang University, the University of Nebraska, and an MBA from the University of California, Irvine. As the parent of a Yunasa and Caroline D. Bradley Scholar alumna, she understands both the joys and challenges of raising a gifted child. She and her husband, Tony Qian, have been part of the IEA community for many years and are deeply grateful for the role IEA has played in their daughter Annie’s journey.

With a heart for education and a strong desire to serve, Cheryl is excited to give back by supporting IEA’s mission. She looks forward to expanding alumni engagement and helping strengthen the IEA community for future generations of gifted learners. We are honored to welcome her to the Board.

Welcome, Julianna!

Julianna Hanlon is a seasoned litigation attorney licensed in Massachusetts with nearly a decade of experience advising clients across a range of legal matters, including mediation, trial and negotiated settlements. She has served both as in-house counsel and as a law firm associate, with a focus on healthcare, real estate, construction and business disputes. As managing counsel, she has provided strategic legal and compliance guidance to healthcare executives, including the president of a local hospital. Julianna currently serves on the Melrose Zoning Board of Appeals and the Melrose Human Rights Commission, and holds leadership roles with the Association of Corporate Counsel and the Boston Bar Association.

A graduate of Northeastern University School of Law and Simmons College, she brings to IEA a thoughtful, analytical perspective and a passion for supporting mission-driven organizations. In her free time, she enjoys weightlifting, painting and exploring the outdoors through hiking and triathlons.

Julianna is excited to serve on IEA’s Board to help champion the needs of gifted children and youth, and to raise awareness around the importance of advocacy and specialized support for this exceptional population.

Pasadena, CA – 09/18/2024 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and advanced learners, continues its 22-year tradition of providing fully funded high school scholarships to gifted eighth graders through the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB). The 26 recipients in the class of 2029 are offered the four-year high school scholarship to attend an optimally matched high school or individualized education program to help them work toward meeting their unique intellectual and personal goals. It is one of the few merit-based, need-blind scholarships of its kind in the United States. In addition to the tuition funding, each Scholar receives ongoing, personalized counseling and educational advocacy, and joins a lifelong network of their peers.

“Beyond the monetary support the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship provides, it also means these bright young minds will become part of the IEA community as they continue on their educational journey,” said Deborah Monroe, President, IEA. “We work closely with the students and their families to foster their lifelong love of learning and look forward to seeing how they develop their talents and share them with the world.”

Interested seventh grade students apply for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship and complete a rigorous portfolio application process, which includes essays, middle school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a work sample. Eligible applicants must also achieve scores at the highest level on nationally normed standardized tests. Applications are reviewed by the Caroline D. Bradley selection committee, a diverse group of nationwide high school and university admissions directors, teachers and administrators, CDB alumni, community members, and business leaders.

“The potential this year’s class of Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship holds is limitless,” said Mallory Aldrich, Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Senior Program Manager at IEA. “They are innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who have already made great impacts in their communities. I know that this scholarship will give them even more opportunities to expand their minds and lean into their curiosities and shape the world for the better.”

Over the course of the next several months, IEA staff, current CDB Scholars and CDB alumni will provide guidance and assistance to the entering class of 2029 Scholars as they begin to identify potential high school programs, complete applications, and prepare their individualized educational plans for next year’s high school entrance.

2029 Caroline D. Bradley Scholars:

• Brennan Bosita – Dallas, TX
• Sofia Castro – Downey, CA
• Caroline Gao – Milpitas, CA
• Gavin Gracey – Perry Hall, MD
• Leila Guillemet – Los Angeles, CA
• Ronald Hart III – Brambleton, VA
• Elijah Hurst – Riverside, CA
• Tina Jin – Cupertino, CA
• Olivia Kaiser – Fairhope, AL
• Reva Khaire – Charlotte, NC
• Elisha Lee – Wilmette, IL
• Atticus Lin – San Francisco, CA
• Nova Macknik-Conde – Brooklyn, NY
• Sebastian Mank – Warren, ME
• Tiger Maxu – Los Angeles, CA
• Clifford McCartney – Chicago, IL
• Carolyn Miller – Bellevue, WA
• Sam Pfeil – Malvern, PA
• Nicholas Pistun – Gainesville, VA
• Max Richmond – Royal Oak, MI
• Bowen Shan – Chandler, AZ
• Lexi Shaw – Gilbert, AZ
• Vivienne Stewart – Hermosa Beach, CA
• Maxim Swinton – Bergen County, NJ
• Ethan Leonard Wadley – Lithia Springs, GA
• Anna Yang – Austin, TX

Currently, there are over 300 alumni, many of whom have graduated from college and are in the workforce, attending graduate school or participating in international service and fellowship programs. The scholarship is generously funded by the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation.

The application for the next class of Caroline D. Bradley Scholars will be available in the fall. 

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org. 

About the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program

IEA’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program is one of the few U.S. high school scholarship programs that is need-blind and awarded solely on the basis of merit to highly gifted seventh graders. Since its inception in 2002, the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship has served over 400 students with academic and personal support, high school tuition and a lifelong network for mentorship and peer connections.

Contact

Kat Kirsch
Institute for Educational Advancement
(626) 403-8900 or kkirsch@educationaladvancement.org

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: Caroline D. Bradley Scholars Class of 2028

PASADENA, CA – 08/13/2024 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and advanced learners, has concluded its search for a dedicated leader to continue the organization’s mission to support gifted learners. Deborah Monroe, a longtime school leader and administrator, teacher and supporter of K-12 students within independent schools, will formally join IEA as President in late August. Her ability to scale and lead large educational organizations will enable IEA to reach and serve gifted students across the nation. Elizabeth Jones, co-founder and current IEA president, will transition to a senior advisor role and support the nonprofit’s Board of Directors as she begins her retirement. 

In her previous roles, Monroe has overseen schools in Puerto Rico and the Los Angeles area. Most recently at The TASIS School in Dorado, Puerto Rico she led the not-for-profit college preparatory PK-12 school and its 800+ students. Her ties to the Los Angeles community include her time leading and teaching at independent schools including Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, CA, The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, CA and Viewpoint School in Calabasas, CA. Monroe is a three-time recipient of Fulbright Teaching and Administrative Fellowships to Spain, Mexico, and Argentina, and completed the Klingenstein Head of School Fellowship with Teachers College at Columbia University in New York City. 

“I am eager to bring my global perspective, lifelong love of learning and deep understanding of educational challenges to continue offering the perfect educational balance for gifted children at the Institute for Educational Advancement,” said Deborah Monroe. “I look forward to advocating for gifted youth and will seek to provide new opportunities and resources for the families we serve, both today and tomorrow.”

Since 1998, IEA has remained one of the only national nonprofit organizations dedicated to gifted children with a focus on the whole gifted child. As the organization enters its 27th year, Monroe will work closely with the Board of Directors to continue to serve the gifted community holistically, enhance strategic priorities, lead fundraising efforts and manage resources to ensure IEA’s continued success in fulfilling its mission.

“We are excited to welcome Deborah as our new President. She will join the IEA team as we begin a new season of programming and support for our students,” said Elizabeth Jones, president and co-founder, Institute for Educational Advancement. “I know her deep understanding of our mission, her leadership and her articulate vision make her the ideal person to expand our current capacity and grow our organization to serve even more advanced learners nationwide.”

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org. 

Contact

Kat Kirsch
Institute for Educational Advancement
(626) 403-8900 or kkirsch@educationaladvancement.org

: Michelle Yegros

PASADENA, CA – 02/20/2024 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and advanced learners, has announced the upcoming retirement of its president and co-founder, Elizabeth Jones. Jones will remain in her current position until a new president has been hired and will then transition to a senior advisor role to support leadership and the Board of Directors.

Since the nonprofit’s founding in 1998, IEA has become a pillar in the gifted education community as a place focused on the whole gifted child. Now recognized as one of the nation’s leading thought leadership organizations supporting the needs of gifted youth, IEA offers enrichment classes and learning opportunities, teacher trainings, consulting services, support groups, summer camps and scholarships for gifted learners. Over 12,000 students have benefited from the organization’s work.

“As we enter a new quarter century at IEA, the organization is strong and has tremendous promise for the future,” said Elizabeth Jones, president and co-founder, Institute for Educational Advancement. “Building this organization that is filled with heart and a commitment to excellence is what makes us special. I am proud of our accomplishments, am honored to have been a part of the lives of so many gifted students and am grateful for the support of our ever-growing community.” 

Giftedness exists in every demographic of society and is often overlooked and underfunded in many education systems. Jones created IEA to fill that gap and be a resource for families and educators alike. Under her guidance, IEA advocated for gifted education locally and nationally and commissioned the first-ever national survey assessing the American public’s views on gifted education. This research continues to influence national policy and is used by organizations across the U.S. in advocating for gifted youth. IEA operates 

With the support of IEA’s Board of Directors, Advisory board and staff, Morris & Berger, an executive search firm with a specialty practice that reaches across the nonprofit sector, will seek a new president to continue the nonprofit’s mission of meeting the unique needs of gifted children, their families and educators and overseeing the organization’s business needs and fiscally sound operating budget. 

“Since Elizabeth founded IEA, we have stayed true to our mission of serving gifted youth, exponentially growing our flagship programs: our Academy enrichment classes, our Award-winning Yunasa Summer Camp, and our unique Caroline D. Bradley merit-based high school scholarship,” said Byron Lichtenstein, IEA Board Chair. “IEA has served gifted children with passion and dedication. I know, because I am one of those young people. We on the board, our community, and the field of gifted education are indebted to Elizabeth for her engagement and the organization’s success.” 

Qualified candidates are invited to view the position brochure online and apply here: https://www.morrisberger.com/position.php?id=2237.

For more information about IEA’s programs and services, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

Contact

Kat Kirsch

Institute for Educational Advancement

(626) 403-8900 or kkirsch@educationaladvancement.org

PASADENA, CA – 09/26/2023 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and advanced learners, celebrated its 25^th anniversary with a Celebration Gala. The event, which was hosted at the San Gabriel Country Club, on Sept. 23, 2023 honored the individuals and organizations that support IEA and raised funds to continue the nonprofit’s important work.

At the Celebration Gala, IEA presented the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) with an award for their partnership and dedication to the children in the community. PUSD has been a longtime partner of IEA. From 1999-2010, the organizations ran a pilot program called Pipeline to Success that provided gifted middle and high school students in PUSD with enrichment classes, Personal Education Plans, and other services, and stressed strong relationships among students, teachers, parents, Program Coordinators and enrichment teachers. Most recently, PUSD tapped IEA to deliver free, high-quality gifted and talented services for eligible students. Last year, over 130 students in grades 3-8 benefited from the IEA-lead curriculum.

IEA also honored co-founder, James Davis, past board chairs including Jennifer Burke, Jeffrey Hudson and Chris Newman for their leadership and Michael M. Piechowski for his longtime role as a Yunasa Fellow and incredible 22 years of service to gifted students.

“Jim and I wanted to create an organization to provide stimulating, rigorous programs that would address the intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual and physical needs of advanced learners, while providing educators with tools and best practices to support the unique needs of gifted learners,” said Elizabeth Jones, president and co-founder, Institute for Educational Advancement.

Recognized as one of the nation’s leading organizations supporting the needs of gifted youth, IEA is one of the only nonprofit organizations providing a robust array of services in Los Angeles County. The nonprofit offers enrichment classes and learning opportunities, teacher trainings, consulting services, support groups, summer camps and scholarships for gifted learners. Since its inception in 1998, IEA has supported over 11,000 students.

In addition to the awards ceremony, the Celebration Gala included dinner and a silent auction with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit. For more information about IEA’s programs and services, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.

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Pasadena, CA – 09/14/2023 – Today, the Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) announces the award recipients of the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB) for the class of 2028, a four-year high school scholarship for gifted learners to attend an optimally matched high school or individualized education program to help them work toward meeting their unique intellectual and personal potential. The recipients will each receive upwards of $200,000, depending on the cost associated with the school or program they choose.  

Interested seventh grade students apply for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship and are required to complete a rigorous portfolio application process, which includes essays, middle school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a work sample. Eligible applicants must also achieve scores at the highest level on nationally normed standardized tests.  

“This year’s applicant pool was one of our most diverse as far as the students’ backgrounds, interests, geographic locations and knowledge base,” said Elizabeth Jones, President and Co-Founder of IEA. “As we celebrate our 25^th anniversary as an organization that supports bright, young minds, we are reminded of how important this scholarship is for the 27 students who will benefit from an academically advanced high school program that will meet their highly intellectual needs.” 

In June, 51 finalists were contacted by the Caroline D. Bradley selection committee for in-person interviews with the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship team. The committee is comprised of a diverse group of nationwide high school and university admissions directors, teachers and administrators, CDB alumni, community members, and business leaders.  

Over the course of the next several months, IEA staff, current CDB Scholars and CDB alumni will provide guidance and assistance to the entering class of 2028 Scholars as they begin to identify potential high school programs, complete applications, and prepare their individualized educational plans for next year’s high school entrance.  

“This year’s Caroline D. Bradley scholars are capable, highly-engaged and impressively intelligent,” said Bonnie Raskin, Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program Director at IEA. “We go beyond just funding these students’ educations, we work closely with them to ensure they find the best program and we remain involved as they continue their educational journeys through high school and throughout their lives.”  

Since its inception in 2002, the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation have generously funded this scholarship. It is one of the few merit-based, need-blind scholarships of its kind in the United States. To date, IEA has awarded more than 400 scholarships to gifted learners and alumni who are already making their mark on the world. Currently, there are 282 alumni, 160 of whom have graduated from college and are in the work force, attending graduate school or participating in international service and fellowship programs. 

The application for the next class of Caroline D. Bradley Scholars will be available in the fall.  

2028 Caroline D. Bradley Scholars:  

• Jason Adeyemi, Duluth, GA 
• Ori Bard, Los Angeles, CA 
• Anahit “Aeon” Bashir, Eden Prairie, MN 
• Ayaan Dhruv, Los Altos Hills, CA 
• Tess Eggeson, Indianapolis, IN 
• Elili Flore, Los Angeles, CA 
• Alesya Hathaway, Las Vegas, NV 
• Samuel Henderson, Lexington, KY 
• Una Joy Hornick, New York, NY
• Rory Hu, Cupertino, CA 
• Osagiemagbon Idehen, Staten Island, NY 
• Ethan Isakir, Flushing, NY 
• Elizabeth Kayes, Makawao, HI 
• Neha Khankari, Palo Alto, CA
• Camille Levy, Troy, MO 
• Jedidiah McClimans, Riverside, CA 
• Violet Miller, Bellevue, WA 
• Adrienne Prater, Tyrone, GA 
• Wyatt Steel, Leesburg, VA 
• Atticus Stewart, Hermosa Beach, CA 
• Faith Taylor, Hanover, NH 
• Grace Walters, Elm Grove, WI 
• Evan Weinswig, Menlo Park, CA 
• Brianna Wong, Oakland, CA 
• Channing Yang, Sugar Land, TX 
• Hannah Yang, Los Angeles, CA 
• Edward Zhang, Omaha, NE 

For more information about this scholarship or any of IEA’s other programs and services, visit www.educationaladvancement.org. 

About the Institute for Educational Advancement 

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org. 

About the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program 

IEA’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program is one of the few U.S. high school scholarship programs that is need-blind and awarded solely on the basis of merit to highly gifted seventh graders. Since its inception in 2002, the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship has served over 400 students with academic and social support, high school tuition and a lifelong network for mentorship and peer connections. 

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Pasadena, Calif. – 8/9/2023 – The Institute for Educational Advancement(IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and advanced learners, will transform their outdoor space in Pasadena, CA into an Outdoor Multi-Use Classroom and Activity Space. This project was funded in part by a grant from the Pasadena Community Foundation with additional funding from another local foundation. IEA also recently received a generous grant from the Joseph Drown Foundation for general operating expenses. The support from organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people in the greater Pasadena area during the IEA’s milestone 25^th anniversary is critical as the nonprofit looks to deepen its reach to more underserved communities within Los Angeles County and increase capacity for the next 25 years.

Outdoor spaces for learning opportunities and community gatherings have become increasingly important as IEA strives to support healthy learning experiences for its students and families. The pandemic reinforced the value of supporting high-quality teaching and learning in outdoor spaces. Access to outdoor learning experiences has been credited with helping to reduce stress and increase concentration as well as an overall sense of emotional well-being for children.

The new outdoor classroom will include a shade pergola, drought-tolerant landscaping, lighting, secure fencing and resurfaced asphalt for improved safety and accessibility for all students, teachers and staff. Students enrolled in IEA’s dynamic educational programming, which includes enrichment classes on a wide variety of subjects, will benefit from the additional classroom space as they conduct experiments and research, play games, improve creativity, and explore their passions in the fresh air. The outdoor classroom will also provide a venue to host community gatherings and special IEA events. The new Outdoor Multi-Use Classroom and Activity Space is expected to be completed in early 2024.

“Our Learning Center, housed inside a historic building, has been an inviting and ‘home-like’ place for our students,” said Elizabeth Jones, president and co-founder, Institute for Educational Advancement. “The funding from local organizations like the Pasadena Community Foundation will help us provide private, safe, and secure outdoor spaces for our students that will open up exciting new learning opportunities to support gifted children, an underserved population in Los Angeles County and beyond.”

For 25 years, IEA has believed that every child deserves access to the most appropriate educational opportunities and individual support they need to thrive and pursue their full intellectual and personal potential. Recognized as one of the nation’s leading organizations supporting the needs of gifted youth, IEA is one of the only nonprofit organizations providing a robust array of services in Los Angeles County. Since its inception, IEA has supported over 11,000 students. The nonprofit is focused on transforming the lives of advanced learners by identifying and serving intellectually curious and creative thinkers of all backgrounds in a safe learning environment.

For more information about IEA’s programs and services, please visit www.educationaladvancement.org or follow on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect like-minded individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladavancement.org.

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Pasadena, CA – 11/1/2022 – Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) has partnered with local nonprofit, the Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), to deliver high-quality gifted and talented services for eligible students. IEA is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and high-potential youth and offers classes, resources and support for those with exceptional intellectual skills. PUSD students identified or demonstrating potential towards identification for gifted and talented education (GATE) are invited to attend after-school Innovation Clubs, a student-centered learning experience where scholars work in teams to complete a variety of design challenges, and explore independent topics of study in the STEM fields. This year, over 130 students in grades 3-8 benefited from the IEA-lead curriculum. 

“It is such an asset to be able to tap into the expertise of an organization that dedicates itself to meeting the unique needs of gifted learners,“ said Karen Anderson, Pasadena Unified School Arts & Enrichment Coordinator and GATE Specialist. “The Institute for Educational Advancement understands how to connect with our students and their unique needs, challenging them while developing their critical and creative thinking skills, and nurturing their love of learning.”

IEA’s program for PUSD includes STEM challenges like catapults, science fiction writing, Innovation Exposition mentoring, online 3D printing workshops, and environmental design projects. In order to reengage students into the school environment coming out of the pandemic, the partnership was started in spring 2022 and continues through this fall at six schools who needed additional support to run this valuable educational program. 

“For almost 25 years, IEA has helped gifted students to work toward their potential through curated learning designed with a whole child approach,” said Elizabeth D. Jones, IEA President. “Partnering with the Pasadena Unified School District’s GATE team allowed us to work within our own community to provide gifted students with academic, social, and emotional support that will benefit the children beyond the classroom walls.”

For more information about the Institute for Educational Advancement, please visit https://educationaladvancement.org/. 

About the Pasadena Unified School District

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) serves pre-K to 12th-grade students in a 76-square mile area that includes the communities of Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and unincorporated parts of Los Angeles County. The Pasadena Unified School District prepares students for the future by inspiring the joy of learning in every child, every day. With an innovative curriculum and a commitment to excellence, the schools of Pasadena Unified develop each student’s potential so that they’re ready to succeed in an ever-changing world. For more information about the Pasadena Unified School District, please visit www.pusd.us/enroll.

About the Institute for Educational Advancement

The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladavancement.org.

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