STARS Scholarship Program Celebrates 17 Graduates and the Transformative Power of Education

The STARS Scholarship Program recently celebrated the achievements of 17 graduates during its annual End-of-Year Celebration, bringing together scholars, alumni, community supporters, and partners to recognize the resilience, determination, and success of student-parents pursuing higher education.

The STARS Scholarship Program, an initiative supported by the Iowa West Foundation and administered by the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation, provides financial assistance, career planning, and personalized support to parents pursuing education and training opportunities that lead to greater economic stability for their families.

This year's celebration highlighted not only academic accomplishments, but also the perseverance required to balance school, work, and family responsibilities.

"Every graduate we celebrate represents a story of resilience, sacrifice, and determination," said Mia Laustrup, Program Director of the STARS Scholarship Program. "These scholars chose to invest in themselves and their futures despite the many obstacles that often stand in the way of adult learners. Their success is creating opportunities not only for themselves, but for their children and future generations."

Graduate speaker Hanna York shared her journey from working full-time and raising a young daughter to becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist.

After enrolling at Iowa Western Community College in 2022 while pregnant with her daughter, York balanced the demands of a rigorous academic program, parenting, and part-time employment. Through the support of the STARS Scholarship, she was able to afford required dental hygiene instruments, childcare, and licensing exams.

"Because of programs like STARS, students like me are able to focus on building a future instead of constantly worrying about how to survive the present," said York. "Your investment does so much more than pay for tuition. You create opportunities, stability, confidence, and hope for families like mine."

Just weeks before the celebration, York graduated with honors, earned her licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist, and was recognized as the Iowa ADHA Student of the Year. She has accepted a position with Quality Dental Care in Bennington, Nebraska, and plans to continue her education through bachelor's and master's degree programs.

Guests also heard from STARS alumna Julie Adkins, who shared her personal story of overcoming challenges as a student-parent and the lasting impact the scholarship program had on her life and career.

"Perception isn't always reality," said Adkins. "People may see the career and stability I have today, but they don't always see the sacrifices, uncertainty, and hard work it took to get here. STARS provided support when I needed it most and helped me create opportunities that changed the trajectory of my family's future."

Today, Adkins serves the community through her work in healthcare and continues to advocate for adult learners and student-parents pursuing their educational goals.

Since its inception in 1997, the STARS Scholarship Program has helped hundreds of parents pursue education and career advancement opportunities while providing greater stability for their families.

The evening served as a reminder that the impact of education extends far beyond a diploma.

"Education changes lives, but perseverance transforms generations," said Laustrup. "When parents succeed, entire families benefit. That is the true impact of the STARS Program."

For more information about the STARS Scholarship Program, visit the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation or contact Program Director Mia Laustrup.