From PFS Executive Director Dr. Jessica Pérez del Toro
WHAT IS PFS?
Partnerships that Change Lives
OUR PARTNER SCHOOLS
2024 ANNUAL REPORT FINANCIALS
PFS SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT
From Intern to Educator: How PFS Inspires Futures | Katie Wei: Westridge Teacher, PFS Board Member and Supporter
2024 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Exploring Possibilities: Summer Field Trips and Community Members Spark Big Dreams
CELEBRATING CONNECTIONS:
PFS ALUMNI DAY AT POLY with stories from the Class of 2024
PFS COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT & SUPPORT
PFS College Counseling & Mentor Program
PFS COLLEGE LIST
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
PFS Alumni Reach Extraordinary Milestones
OUR FUNDERS AND PARTNERS
PFS ADVISORY BOARD
Dear PFS Community of Supporters,
As we reflect on our 34th PFS summer, I am filled with gratitude for a season of growth, learning, and achievement. In 2024, PFS provided over 400 students with five weeks of academic enrichment, college counseling, and career exploration. These transformative experiences were made possible thanks to your unwavering support.
In addition to classroom learning and enrichment, the summer emphasized career exploration and curricular connections through field trips and partnerships with professionals in medicine, law, and science. High school students participated in a dynamic speaker series and toured campuses including CalTech, Occidental, Cal State LA, and the Claremont Colleges. Highlights included a Pasadena Courthouse visit, where Scholars met and heard personal stories from judges and observed real cases, and a ninth-grade trip to The Huntington to explore the arts.
Middle school students engaged with Pasadena’s scientific community, visiting institutions like HMRI, Carnegie Observatories, and Honeybee Robotics. They learned about space science from JPL engineers and participated in habitat restoration projects in local spaces. Fifth and sixth graders visited the Rose Bowl Stadium, Descanso Gardens, and the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, introducing them to Pasadena’s cultural and recreational gems.
One of our proudest moments was celebrating the PFS Class of 2024, all of whom were accepted to colleges across the country. Our alumni are currently pursuing degrees in fields including medicine, law, business, architecture, and psychology. Alumni Day was another highlight, featuring keynote speaker Saúl López (Class of 2010), whose career in photography and videography inspired our Scholars. Over 50 alumni returned to reconnect and share their experiences. The event was a true testament to the strength of our community and the deep impact PFS has on its Scholars even years after graduation.
Adding to our summer success was the expansion of our partnership with Pasadena City College (PCC). Half of our high school students opted for an extended day at Poly which allowed them to take PCC courses in personal finance, history, psychology, and ethnic studies, giving them a head start on their college journeys.
The extraordinary work of PFS is possible because of YOU! Thank you for believing in and supporting our mission to empower our Scholars to dream big and achieve great success. Together, we are inspiring scholars, connecting our community, and transforming lives . This work has never been more important. Thank you for your continued support!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Dr. Jessica Pérez del Toro
Executive Director, Partnership for Success
Partnerships that Change Lives
Leveraging the expertise, resources, and support of both public and private schools, Partnership for Success (PFS) exemplifies the transformative impact of public-private partnerships on the lives of deserving students. This initiative is dedicated to providing equitable educational opportunities to low-income students in the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) through free, high-quality summer academic enrichment, year-round mentoring, community support, parent education, and college counseling. Since its inception in 1990, PFS has been steadfast in using education and community support to prepare Pasadena’s next generation of engaged, productive citizens. It complements PUSD efforts by prioritizing academic rigor and college attainment in an educational setting that offers small class sizes, personalized support, and life-long community connections.
The PFS program spans nine consecutive summers, beginning after a students’ fourth-grade year and concluding after their senior year of high school. Selected by their school principals and teachers, over 400 Pasadena public school students engage in a five-week program each summer, featuring a well-balanced curriculum covering math, science, technology, literature, and career exploration. PFS Scholars are introduced to the
reality of college from a young age and receive targeted college counseling in high school.
Throughout the program, Scholars connect with community professionals from a wide range of fields who inspire them to dream big about their future. PFS Scholars benefit from creative, experienced teachers from both our public and private school partners. Westridge School hosts girls for their first two summers, while boys of the same age attend Chandler School. All Scholars attend Mayfield Junior School in the summers before seventh and eighth grades, and throughout high school, they spend their summers at Polytechnic School. Upon high school graduation, Scholars remain in the program for a final ninth summer, serving as a bridge to college. During this period, they acquire valuable life skills to facilitate a successful transition to higher education. Annually, over 90% of students return to the program, and 100% of program graduates complete high school and advance to college. Notably, approximately 80% of PFS graduates are first-generation college attendees. Many alumni give back to the program by working as paid interns, providing one-on-one support and serving as role models for current PFS students.
PFS PARTNER SCHOOLS
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
Chandler School
Mayfield Junior School
Polytechnic School
Westridge School
PUSD ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Altadena Arts Magnet
CIS Academy
Don Benito Fundamental School
Field Elementary School
Hamilton Elementary School
Jackson STEM Dual Language Magnet Academy
Longfellow Elementary School
Madison Elementary School
Norma Coombs Elementary School
San Rafael Elementary School
Sierra Madre Elementary School
Washington Elementary STEM Magnet School
Webster Elementary School
Willard Elementary School
PUSD K-8 SCHOOLS
McKinley School
PUSD MIDDLE SCHOOLS
Eliot Arts Magnet Academy
Sierra Madre Middle School
Octavia E. Butler Magnet
PUSD 6-12 SCHOOLS
Blair School
Marshall Fundamental Secondary School
PUSD HIGH SCHOOLS
John Muir High School Early College Magnet
Pasadena High School
Rose City High School
(8%)
(14%)
Financial Dashboard 2024
USE OF FUNDS 2024
Program Expenses...........................................................$614,235
Program Administration...............................................$110,556
Fundraising and Fund Management..........................$67,053
Total Expenditure......................................................$791,844
TOTAL REVENUE 2024
PFS Supporter Spotlight
FROM INTERN TO EDUCATOR: HOW PFS INSPIRES FUTURES | KATIE WEI: WESTRIDGE TEACHER, PFS BOARD MEMBER AND SUPPORTER
I didn’t know it at the time, but the summers of 1996 and 1997 proved to be instrumental in my future career path. I interned in the Language Arts classroom at Westridge, and the teacher gave me the opportunity to teach a lesson on my own. I was excited about getting the chance to design a lesson but also intimidated because 5th- and 6th-grade girls were smarter, sassier, and far more capable than I anticipated. That summer gave me a fresh view of middle grades kids, and it was the first time I considered teaching lower or middle school, having always thought I would work with older kids.
The other experience that stands out was the week spent doing experiential education at Descanso Gardens. I will never forget the student who struggled to track what we were doing in the Language Arts lessons but who walked around Descanso with awe and excitement when she realized that working with her hands outside at a place like Descanso was a job someone could one day have. The transformation I witnessed as the world of possibility opened for her is one that stays with me. It reminds me that the summers spent at PFS—for those who work there and those who attend—are not just opportunities to grow academically in the summer, but to have the world expanded, broadened, and sometimes sharpened into focus.
2024 Program Highlights
EXPLORING POSSIBILITIES: SUMMER FIELD TRIPS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS SPARK BIG DREAMS
Over 400 PFS Scholars ventured beyond the classroom and into the community, embarking on 31 exciting field trips designed to ignite curiosity, foster connections, and inspire big dreams for the future. Aligned with our strategic plan to develop community partnerships and broaden student experiences, these trips offered Scholars unique opportunities to explore career paths, connect with professionals from diverse fields, and envision possibilities within their own communities.
CAREER DAYS AT CHANDLER AND WESTRIDGE
For the first time, Chandler hosted a Career Day featuring three PFS alumni, Kevin Alvarado, Alessandro Monteros, and Oliver Rodas who inspired students with their journeys in engineering and computer science.
At Westridge, PFS alumnae Lizeth Tapia and Grace Persico, and Scripps College Trustee Dr. Denise Nelson Nash shared their insights, sparking curiosity and excitement about diverse career paths in education, social work, and environmental protection.
SPECIAL GUESTS AT MAYFIELD JUNIOR AND POLY
At Mayfield Junior, students heard from JPL engineers David Henríquez and Luis Domínguez who shared cutting-edge advancements in space exploration.
At Poly, a diverse group of community professionals including Laura Farber, Pablo Miralles, Dr. Richard García, Hannah Dion-Kirshner, and Cynthia Cannady captivated students with stories from careers in scientific research, law, medicine, media and communications, business, and climate activism.
5TH AND 6TH GRADE
Scholars enjoyed activities like swimming at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center and visiting iconic community spaces such as the Rose Bowl Stadium, Descanso Gardens, and the Natural History Museum.
7TH GRADE
Focused on environmental sustainability, students explored the Gabrielino Trail and studied microbial diversity with guidance from CalTech GO-Outdoors and Ph.D. candidates. They visited Urban Homestead, Muir Farm Lab, and the Altadena Community Garden to learn about conservation and sustainable practices. In partnership with the Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy, scholars learned about native plants and participated in a habitat restoration service project.
8TH GRADE
Scholars explored STEAM fields with trips to Huntington Medical Research Institute, Honeybee Robotics, Carnegie Observatories, Glenair, and the Getty Center, sparking interest in science, technology, engineering, and visual art.
HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARS
Career and higher education exploration included visits to institutions like Caltech, the Claremont Colleges, Occidental College, Cal State Los Angeles, Cal Poly Pomona, and the University of Redlands, alongside impactful experiences at the Pasadena Courthouse, the Museum of Tolerance and The Huntington.
2024 Class Highlights
LOOKING AHEAD
Summer 2025 marks our program’s 35th anniversary—a milestone that comes at a particularly challenging time for our community. On January 7, 2025, the devastating Eaton Fire disrupted the lives of many of our students and their families, shaking their sense of stability. Yet in the face of this hardship, we have an opportunity to offer something powerful: hope . Through Partnership for Success, we provide students with a summer of learning and connection—a chance to regain their confidence, continue their education, and find joy within a supportive community. For 2025, we aim to deepen relationships with our current partners while establishing new collaborations to offer even more transformative experiences. Our vision includes providing more space and activities to build community and care for students’ social emotional needs, expanding experiential learning, and incorporating internship opportunities for high school students that connect them with the community and help them build essential skills and confidence for the future. Together we hope to inspire our students to dream big and empower them for the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
COLOR, CONTRAST, AND CREATIVITY: EXPLORING ARTISTIC VISION IN STUDIO ART FUNDAMENTALS
ARNOR BIELTVEDT
Rising 9th graders dove into the vibrant world of color theory in Studio Art Fundamentals, turning a simple horse drawing into a masterpiece of creativity. Using a grid system, they divided their artwork into nine sections, each a canvas for exploring bold and subtle color contrasts. Through this hands-on project, students mastered peak contrasts and subtle transitions, discovering their natural expertise in light, dark, warm, cool, and hue contrasts. Discussions on how color shapes their everyday lives deepened their insights, sparking creativity and elevating their artistic vision. This course celebrated exploration, discovery, and artistic expression!
ROBOTS, CODING, AND CRITICAL THINKING: A HANDS-ON ADVENTURE IN ENGINEERING
MONICA SÁNCHEZ
At Westridge, PFS students dove into the exciting world of building and coding, developing essential critical thinking skills. Fifth graders kicked off the adventure by constructing a drive base on wheels and programming basic motor movements, which they then used to choreograph a fun robot dance! Sixth graders embraced the engineering design process, learning how motors and sensors work through hands-on projects. They challenged themselves to build different models of a Hopper, competing to see whose design could travel the furthest. Throughout, students reflected on their growth, fostering a dynamic, collaborative learning environment.
MIND, MEDIA, AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS: NAVIGATING WELLNESS IN THE DIGITAL AGE
STEPHANIE MONTELEONE
Ninth grade Scholars explored the profound impact media has on their social, emotional and physical well-being. They examined how apps are designed to capture attention, creating thought patterns that may conflict with their values and harm mental health. One unit focused on key elements of healthy relationships—trust, respect, boundaries, and communication. Scholars engaged in real-world scenarios, developing strategies for conflict resolution and relationship maintenance. The summer culminated with presentations where students followed their curiosity to research a health topic, sharing their discoveries with peers and fostering a deeper understanding of personal well-being.
CLIMATE CHANGE: SCIENCE, SOLUTIONS, AND STUDENT ACTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
TIM COOK
Sophomores learned about the urgent climate crisis, combining scientific understanding with optimism for creative solutions. They explored the math, physics, and chemistry behind climate change, including concepts like energy, temperature, and quantum theory. Key works like Drawdown and The Future
We Choose shaped discussions on viable solutions, while guest speakers, including CalTech scientists and local activists, offered practical perspectives. Students engaged in handson problem-solving exercises and presented personal visions of climate action. The course culminated in student presentations, encouraging each participant to envision how they can contribute to climate action, fostering a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Celebrating Connections: PFS Alumni Day at Poly
Our 2024 PFS Alumni Day at Poly celebrated the enduring bonds and lifelong relationships fostered through Partnership for Success. This special event brought together over 50 PFS alumni, including members from as far back as the Class of 2004, who returned to share their stories and inspire the next generation of Scholars. Many alumni took time off work to attend this special event and reconnect with the community that shaped their paths.
ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT IN THE CLASSROOM
Alumni visited classes to share their educational journeys and career paths, offering current Scholars invaluable insights and inspiration. Their stories highlighted the diverse paths available after PFS and demonstrated the lasting impact of the program.
KEYNOTE BY SAÚL LÓPEZ, CLASS OF 2010
The day featured an inspiring keynote address by Saúl López, a proud PFS alumnus and entrepreneur. Saúl shared his journey from studying economics to becoming a successful freelance videographer and photographer. His story emphasized the importance of adaptability, kindness, and relationship-building.
Saúl reminded Scholars that life is a journey of exploration and growth, saying:
• “Try new things and be open to new ideas.”
• He shared how the friendships formed during PFS, including a lifelong friend he met at Chandler, shaped his life.
• He encouraged students to value integrity, effective communication, and kindness as essential traits for success.
A LASTING LEGACY
The event was a powerful reminder of the strong community at the heart of PFS and the profound ways the program continues to influence its alumni. Saúl’s words resonated deeply, encouraging Scholars to dream big, embrace change, and prioritize meaningful connections. PFS Alumni Day stands as a testament to the program’s enduring impact and its ability to inspire and uplift generations of students.
Stories from the PFS Class of 2024
JAMAR HICKS, PFS CLASS OF 2024, CURRENT STUDENT AT CAL POLY POMONA
My summers have been filled with incredible experiences and life-changing moments. It all started in fourth grade when I had very little understanding of myself and what the future held. When I first attended PFS, I immediately felt like a valued member of the community. I met my best friend there, and to this day, our friendship remains strong. The classes I took were captivating and applicable to the world around me. I learned how to solve complex math puzzles, gained insights into climate change, and even learned to form sentences in Mandarin. Moreover, PFS has thoroughly equipped me for where I am today. As a first-generation college student, I had no idea how college worked, but PFS provided unwavering support from the very beginning. In addition, the wisdom passed on by my teachers, mentors, and guest speakers will forever be cherished and utilized in my journey. Thanks to PFS, I can confidently embrace who I am and approach my future endeavors with an inquisitive mind.
Stories from the PFS Class of 2024
BRYANT PRANBOONPLUK, PFS CLASS OF 2024, CURRENT STUDENT AT YALE
My experience within PFS has absolutely been a highlight throughout my entire high school journey. With each summer I completed with PFS, I left with an arsenal of tools, connections, and techniques I used throughout the school year. The resources that PFS gave me about the college admissions process is one of the biggest factors that I attribute to my admission to Yale University. The knowledge I received about different types of colleges such as private, public, and liberal arts and the guidance about the financial aid process allowed me to make the most informed decision about pursuing higher education. The one-on-one support I received from Mr. Monroy and Ms. Rodas in the essay writing workshop and the college application process was something that I would have never had access to had I not been a member of PFS. I am so immensely grateful for all of the friendships and relationships that I have made throughout my time at PFS. The community that was built through the deep conversations in classes and the Friday BBQs was by far one of the most valuable things that I have received from PFS. It’s a community that I know I can fall back on in times of struggle as I enter the next phase of my life at Yale.
TRAM HOANG-LE, PFS CLASS OF 2024, CURRENT STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE
Growing up in an immigrant family, where my parents worked long hours while I took care of my brother, I had difficulty finding direction in both my personal and academic life. I remember the day my parents received a call about Partnership for Success, and immediately they knew this program would forever change my life. Reflecting on the last 9 summers, PFS has helped me progress in my academic career and has made me grow into the person I am today. Through PFS, I learned so much about the world and how to navigate my future. I also made incredible connections with my peers, teachers, and college mentors. As a first-generation student, college is important to me. PFS taught me how to navigate the college process—from assisting me with my essays, building up my résumé, to applying for financial aid. Without PFS, I would not have been able to navigate such a stressful time in my high school career. With the 35th anniversary coming up, I cannot express enough the importance of a program like PFS, as it has provided me a sense of community and comfort knowing I can reach out for help. In the end, my parents were right; PFS did change my life, and I could not be more grateful.
YAMILE GÓMEZ, PFS CLASS OF 2024, CURRENT STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
The summer before fifth grade, I thought PFS was another boring summer school. Now as an alum, I am forever grateful for this program. My experience at PFS has been filled with nothing but unforgettable connections, friendships, and memories. My teachers at every single campus made sure that I knew the material they were teaching and ensured that I understood everything. That is what makes PFS special; the class sizes are small, where teachers have the opportunity to have oneon-one conversations with their students to make sure they are not lost. PFS provided many resources that helped me navigate the college process, especially as a first-generation college student. Without them, I would have never considered applying to college because I did not have the confidence to do so. I owe them a huge thank you for helping me apply. Now, I am a student at UC San Diego. The classes offered at PFS were not the only aspects of the program that I found valuable. Recently, PFS started having an Alumni Day, where alums come and talk about their experiences after graduating the program. I find this day very valuable as someone who is barely going to college because many alums say that it’s okay to not know what you want to do with your life. In the end, everyone finds a place in the world where they are comfortable, but it may take some time to find it. As PFS celebrates its 35th year, this program is vital because it gives students the confidence to step out of their comfort zone. I hope this program continues on for many more generations, and I am excited to see how far PFS can expand because this program is one-of-a-kind.
JENNIFER GONZÁLEZ MORALES, PFS CLASS OF 2024, CURRENT STUDENT AT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY
I remember when my school administrator announced that I was selected to attend Partnership for Success in the summer. I did not know what to expect as I had never heard of this program. Now, having completed my last summer as a student, I can say that PFS was an important and impactful program in my educational journey. Through PFS, I was able to learn the importance of community and the relationships that we form in the classrooms. I am grateful for the support and resources we were provided through college application workshops and one-on-one meetings. PFS College Counselor Mr. Monroy read over my PIQs and gave me feedback for a strong application to get into my dream school. PFS is an amazing program that from the first summer introduces students to a world of curiosity and the eagerness to learn more, providing you with long-term support, mentors, friendships, and community. I’ll forever cherish the friendships I made along the way, as I know these relationships go deeper than any other. The program’s 35th year reinforces the vital part that it plays in students’ lives and the value of the supplemental education we can receive. I will forever be proud to be a part of the community at PFS. Though I have finished my journey as a PFS student, I hope to come back as an alumnus and continue to keep my connection with this program.
PFS Community Engagement & Support
PFS COLLEGE COUNSELING
Approximately 80% of PFS students will be the first in their family to attend college. By imparting the knowledge and skills necessary for informed decision-making, PFS aims to empower students as they successfully embark on their post-secondary journey. The PFS College Counseling Program is a comprehensive initiative tailored for students in grades 9-13, offering targeted support and outreach to ensure each PFS Scholar receives personalized assistance throughout the college process. In grades 9 through 11, all PFS Scholars attend sessions with our PFS College Counselor to learn about critical points in the college admissions process. Each summer, all PFS Scholars at the high school level spend time visiting university campuses throughout southern California. In spring, a parent workshop is conducted through PFS Puentes, our parent education program, providing families with insights on navigating the college process and effectively
supporting their child. Prior to senior year, all PFS Scholars take a college counseling course where they research diverse institutions of higher education, explore career pathways, build their college list, draft personal statements, and learn how to finance college. Rising seniors also participate in an overnight trip at Claremont McKenna College where they engage in case studies with admissions officers, tour campuses, and experience life in college dorms. Throughout the academic year, PFS seniors are required to attend college application, financial aid, and essay writing workshops and fall and spring check-ins. These events are facilitated by our college counseling instructor and the PFS College Counselor, who have already built connections with our students. Both faculty members are available for one-onone appointments to guide seniors through the college application process.
Thanks to our robust college counseling program, 100% of PFS graduates are accepted to college. PFS remains committed to supporting its graduates by encouraging participation in the PFS Alumni Network which hosts alumni events and check-ins. We believe that such ongoing support is essential for college success and degree attainment. PFS graduates are invited to give back to PFS and support the program full circle by returning to work for the program as paid interns or by serving as mentors of current students and alumni.
PREPARING SCHOLARS FOR COLLEGE AND BEYOND
PFS EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH PCC
PFS expanded its partnership with Pasadena City College (PCC) and offered college credit courses to students in grades 8 through 12, building on our long-standing College 1 course for grade 13 Scholars. Rising 8th graders at Mayfield Junior School took an Intro to College course. At the Poly site, students in grades 9-12 took courses including Personal Finance, Mexican American History, Intro to Psychology, and Intro to Ethnic Studies. By offering college credit courses in the summer, PFS aims to expose students to college-level coursework early in their high school careers, increasing their persistence and academic success. This dual enrollment approach helps students earn both college and high school credit, offering a competitive edge and enriching their learning experiences. Additionally, these courses support the goal of creating clear pathways to post-secondary education, helping students explore diverse majors and careers, and increasing their likelihood of completing high school with significant college credits. This expansion strengthens the PFS program and ensures students are better prepared to succeed in higher education.
Arizona State University
Azusa Pacific University*
Bowdoin College
Cal Poly Humboldt*
Cal Poly Pomona*
California Baptist University*
Chaffey College
Cal State Bakersfield
Cal State Chico
Cal State Dominguez Hills
Cal State Fullerton*
Cal State Long Beach*
Cal State Los Angeles*
Cal State Northridge
Cal State Sacramento
Cal State San Bernardino
Dillard University
Drew University
Duke University
Gonzaga University
Hawai’i Pacific University
Marquette University
Motlow State Community College*
Mount St. Mary’s University, LA*
Pasadena City College*
Pennsylvania State University
(University Park)*
Pepperdine University**
Princeton University
San Diego State University
San Francisco State University
San Jose State University
Tufts University
UC Berkeley*
UC Davis*
UC Irvine*
UC Los Angeles
UC Merced
UC Riverside
UC San Diego*
UC Santa Barbara
UC Santa Cruz
University of Chicago
University of La Verne
University of Pennsylvania
University of Southern California
Whitman College
Xavier University
Yale University*
*Schools 2024 PFS graduates are attending
**Posse Scholar
PFS FEBRUARY COMMUNITY GATHERING
In February, PFS celebrated a vibrant gathering for both new and returning families. The event brought together PFS teachers, alumni, site directors, and mentors and featured impactful speeches from PFS co-founder Carmie Rodríguez and PFS alumna (’00) and former Mayor of Compton, Aja Brown. This celebratory gathering united families and reignited our collective appreciation for the transformative power of education and community.
PFS MENTOR PROGRAM
Launched in the summer of 2020, the PFS Mentor Program brings together diverse youth from across Pasadena schools to form a network of support and community for PFS Scholars. Year-round, high school students from PUSD, Flintridge Prep, Maranantha, Sequoyah, St. Francis, Poly, and Westridge mentor PFS Scholars in grades 5 through 10, offering valuable academic and social emotional support and fostering meaningful connections. Students connect virtually at least twice a month and meet in person during program-wide gatherings in the fall, winter, and spring and during special mentor-mentee events with local organizations. Mentors are actively encouraged to volunteer at different PFS sites throughout the intensive 5-week summer program, enhancing the depth and impact of the mentorship experience. In the fall, PFS mentors and mentees gathered together for a UCLA football game at the Rose Bowl Stadium and for a holiday workshop to support cats and dogs at the Pasadena Humane Society. Mentors also engaged in our second annual PFS book gifting event and mailed over 61 books to PFS mentees.
Where Are They Now?
PFS ALUMNI REACH EXTRAORDINARY MILESTONES
MICHAEL KHATCHADOURIAN PFS CLASS
OF 2016
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EDUCATIONAL PATH AFTER GRADUATING FROM THE PFS PROGRAM?
After graduating from PFS, I enrolled at California Lutheran University where I graduated with a BS in Biology. Going into college I knew I wanted to go into healthcare, and I had my mind set on going to dental school. However, after facing challenges such as having to retake admissions exams and bolstering my application with both more work experience and community service, another door opened for me and I enrolled at the Midwestern University College of Pharmacy. In 2024 I graduated with a Doctorate in Pharmacology. Even with the challenges I faced, I kept my options open because there’s always another opportunity that you might not know about right around the corner.
IN WHAT WAYS DID THE PFS PROGRAM SUPPORT YOUR ACADEMIC GROWTH AND SUCCESS?
PFS was probably one of the most important things I had going through school. Even though the program ended right before I went into college, and I went on my own journey from there, everyone that I met at PFS was rooting for me. Whether I knew it or not, they were there. During PFS, I made some of my closest friends that I have to this day. Having their support allowed me to grow as an individual. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to get involved in various clubs and organizations. All the different classes and electives I took during PFS showed me that you still can combine fun and education. And that is something I always did at PFS, have fun.
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY DOING?
Currently, I am working on obtaining my Pharmacist license. I am studying for two different board exams, the NAPLEX and MPJE. My time at PFS allowed me to learn more about myself as an individual and helped me realize that I can push myself more than I think. Being a part of PFS played a role in my education and continues to do so to this day. I’m lucky enough to get to call PFS family and I think that is one of the core values that helps in life. No matter what, whenever I am faced with a challenge, being a part of PFS has reminded me that there are always people there to back you up and support you.
KARLA LUVIANO
PFS CLASS OF 2017
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EDUCATIONAL PATH AFTER GRADUATING FROM THE PFS PROGRAM?
Upon graduating from the PFS program, I attended UCLA where I earned a B.A. in Sociology and a minor in Education. After graduating from UCLA in 2021, I attended law school at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. After a total of seven years of higher education, I earned my Juris Doctor (J.D.) in May of 2024 and sat for the CA Bar Exam in July 2024. I received a passing score on the exam in November 2024. As a first generation college student, my higher education journey was riddled with various challenges. From financial challenges to cultural shock as I attended a predominantly white institution. Navigating rigorous courses with little to no guidance forced me to step out of my comfort zone and seek support. Despite my parents being unable to provide guidance with my coursework, the hard work and resilience they taught me at a young age allowed me to become resourceful and find a way to succeed no matter how challenging my courses were. My family’s immense support allowed me to pursue higher education.
IN WHAT WAYS DID THE PFS PROGRAM SUPPORT YOUR ACADEMIC GROWTH AND SUCCESS?
Early on in my experience with PFS, it became apparent to me that I was surrounded by bright students and this realization allowed me to further challenge myself to think outside of the box just as my peers did. While other students were taking time off during the summer, those of us at PFS were participating in challenging, yet engaging learning, all while having fun doing summer activities. As a young student, PFS was the embodiment of working hard while also playing hard. Upon returning to school in the fall, after my first summer at PFS, I was shocked that some of the math skills we learned during the summer were now being taught. It is still remarkable to me that at such a young age I was able to discern how beneficial this program would be to my academic journey. Because of my first few summers at PFS, I was able to embrace how much I truly enjoyed school and learning. This passion for learning and success was further cemented as I went through various PFS summers and was able to visit college campuses, knowing that because of this program, I would one day be attending college. Finally, during my last summer at PFS, I was fortunate enough to participate in various college preparatory courses offered by PFS/PCC that truly gave me an insight into the rigor of college courses.
My rewarding experience with PFS was two fold. I attended PFS for the first time as a rising 5th grader at Westridge. Upon completing my first summer at UCLA, I returned to the program as an intern. I was eager to see how much the program had evolved since my first summer at Westridge. I was fortunate enough to return as
an intern for three summers. Those summers were some of the most rewarding as I was able to build relationships with students just as past interns did with me. This program and its resources were especially crucial to students during the COVID-19 era as PFS was able to allow students to feel connected to one another through remote/distance learning.
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY DOING?
I am currently a civil litigation attorney. Since a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career where I was able to hold a position of power and help others. For some time, I considered becoming an educator because of how rewarding my experience as a PFS intern was - hence my education minor. However, I knew that as an attorney I could enter a profession with the ability to make substantive change that would not only benefit students but also the great educators that I was fortunate to have at PFS and throughout my public education. Although I am just beginning my career as an attorney, and I am not currently engaged in education law, this is an area of law that I continue to consider as my career develops. PFS allowed me to become a critical thinker and further developed various essential skills needed to succeed academically. I like to think I have always been a good student, but without PFS I would not have been able to challenge myself and further develop my intelligence.
100% of PFS graduates accepted to college
410 students served in 2024
9 79% First-Generation College Student
Average class size: 16 consecutive summers
Total 2024 Cost Per Student
$84 per day
$1,931 for the summer $13,550 for all 9 summers for each 2024 graduate
*PFS is completely funded, ensuring that all students can participate at no cost.
PFS Funders and Partners 2023-2024
INDIVIDUAL DONORS
Anonymous
Giselle and Craig Arteaga-Johnson
Flora and Andrew Birdzell
Rachel Countryman and John Bracker
Emily Brown
Cindy Chiang
Pao Chiu
Joie and Alvin DelaLlana
Pilar Díaz
Martha Doerr Toppin
Rocele Estanislao
Robert Farrar
Maureen Gelberg
Beth Gertmenian
Roderick Giron
Beverley Goldin
José Gómez
Suzanne Greenberg
Cindy Gutiérrez-Yamada
Tiffany and Marc Harris
Andrea Kassar and Tim McKenna
Kate and Kevin Kohorst
Ruel Macaraeg
Steven Madison
Michaela Mares-Tamayo
Elizabeth and Ian McGregor
Margaret and David Mgrublian
Eric Medina
Sara Montrose
Wendy Munger
Jessica Pérez del Toro
Eddie Pickett
Carol and Glenn Pomerantz
Kim and Stuart Posin
Sheila and Eric Potter
Mateo Reyes
Julianne and Alfonso Reynoso
Carmie and Rod Rodríguez
Alan Sahussanun
Leticia Sánchez
Marcie Gilbert and Joe Sciuto
Stephen Shar
Stephanie and Kaoruhiko Suziki
Megan Sweeney
Trevessa and James Terrile
Katie and Alex Wei
Dindy Weinstein
Frances White
Richard White
Teri Wilde
Joyce and Joe Ybarra
Jaime Zadra
INSTITUTIONS AND FOUNDATIONS
Anonymous
Ahmanson Foundation
Ann Peppers Foundation
PFS ADVISORY BOARD
John W. Bracker
Board Chair, Partnership for Success Head of School, Polytechnic School
Emily Brown
Head of School, Chandler School
Dr. Tara Gómez-Hampton
Scientist and Community Advocate
California Credit Union
Capital Group Companies
Claremont Mckenna College
Edmund and Mary Shea Foundation
Fitzberg Foundation
H.N. & Frances Berger Foundation
Hoffman Foundation
Liberty Hill Foundation
Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation
Pasadena City College
Ralph M. Parsons Foundation
Rose Hills Foundation
Weingart Foundation
Westridge Parent Association
PARTNERS
Chandler School
Mayfield Junior School
Pasadena Unified School District
Polytechnic School
Westridge School
VOLUNTEERS
Hector Consuegra
Linda Sindell
Alan Siu
Debbie Yoon
Michelle Feynman
Andrea Kassar
Head of School, Westridge School
Julianne Reynoso
Student Wellness and Support Services
Pasadena Unified School District
Carmie Rodríguez
Co-Founder, Partnership for Success
Joe Sciuto
Vice Chair, Partnership for Success Head of School, Mayfield Junior School
Katie Wei
Westridge School Faculty Member
Joyce Ybarra
Director of Grant Operations, Weingart Foundation
PfS
MISSION
Partnership for Success (PFS) helps selected Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) students realize their full academic and personal potential in a setting that fosters community, collaboration, and confidence.
Students who are selected:
• Have limited financial resources
• Are on-track with their current grade level
• Demonstrate strong academic potential and leadership
• Demonstrate interest in their own personal development
Participants commit to:
• Hard work
• Consistent attendance
• Personal growth
• Giving back
FOUNDED ON COLLABORATION
Partnership for Success is a collaboration between private and public schools in Pasadena that provides a fully funded academic summer enrichment and college access program designed to help students achieve their academic goals and learn the skills needed for a brighter future. Founded in 1990, the program brings together experienced teachers, dedicated support staff and alumni, and promising young students for a transformative educational experience with proven long-term results.
INVEST IN PASADENA YOUTH
At PFS, we believe that lack of access to equitable educational opportunity should never be a barrier to a child’s dreams. No matter the size, your gift will help open the door to a brighter future and transform the lives of hundreds of deserving Pasadena youth.
