Seeds of Change

and hobbies they might not otherwise experience, and opens doors to pursuing private school admission for high school.

Over the last decade of the program, several GovsPLUS participants have continued on to attend Govs, enriching campus life, and stepping into several student leadership positions. Over 240 GovsPLUS alumni are either enrolled at private secondary schools and colleges, or have graduated from acclaimed universities, including Harvard, Tufts, Williams, and Boston University.

Leaders from both e Governor’s Academy and surrounding communities step up annually to support GovsPLUS (Powerful Learners Unlocking Success), a tuition-free summer academic enrichment program that partners Govs with motivated middle school students from Lawrence, Massachusetts. Generous support from foundations led by both alumni and local leaders continues to keep GovsPLUS— of Govs signature programs—thriving, making a lasting impact on many young people.

Established in 2013, GovsPLUS provides eighth- and ninth-grade students the opportunity to attend a ve-week summer program at Govs. is program provides academics and introduces the young scholars to sports

“GovsPLUS plants the seed of curiosity, con dence, and motivation,” says Program Director Michelle de la Guardia, GovsPLUS Director and Governor’s Language Department Chair. “Our scholars grow in body, mind, and spirit as we provide the support they need to become their best selves.” e program derives its funding from three sources: the Academy’s operating budget, private donations, and grants from several foundations. Some of these foundations, such as the Nathaniel and Elizabeth P. Stevens Foundation, have connections to Govs alumni. Josh Miner ’69 is a trustee of the foundation, and advocates for GovsPLUS to receive funding from the organization annually.

“GovsPLUS’ work with Lawrence youth in By eld ts the foundation’s mission well,” said Miner. Miner sees the program’s ability to change the lives of its participants and others as a key reason to support the program. “We have been excited to support GovsPLUS from the beginning, knowing what positive changes the program could bring to the youth involved, as well as to the academy’s sta and students,” said Miner.

Additional foundation support comes from community foundations that alumni introduce to the program, like the Eastern Bank Foundation.

“Teens in our gateway cities like Lawrence and elsewhere can truly benet from getting involved in programs like GovsPLUS,” said Nancy Stager, President and Chief Executive O cer, Eastern Bank Foundation. “It helps broaden not only their academic horizons, but also grows their con dence in pursuing life dreams and goals.”

Other foundations that provide GovsPLUS with valuable assistance include the Greater Lawrence Summer Fund of the Essex County Charitable Foundation, Highland Street Foundation, Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, and the Edward S. & Winifred G. Moseley Foundation.

As the program prepares to celebrate its tenth summer, GovsPLUS has become a valuable way for the Academy to give back, thanks to the support of alumni and foundations who believe in its mission.

“Govs athletics furthered my development as both an athlete and an individual, while also creating a community where teammates would become lifelong friends.”

What will you choose to support?

•Govs greatest needs

•The Arts

•Athletics

•DEI

•Student financial aid

•GovsPLUS

•Student life

•Teaching support