Minds Matter Cleveland

05/08/2026

We are thrilled to celebrate an exciting milestone for our senior class—college decisions are in!

After years of hard work, perseverance, and growth, our seniors are taking the next step on their journeys to college and future careers. From Saturday sessions and summers spent at academic programs across the country, this moment reflects the dedication of our students and the unwavering support of our community. We couldn’t be prouder to share where their paths are leading next.

Stay tuned for our senior shoutout series for more info!

04/30/2026

Attention rising sophomores! The Priority Deadline for student applications is TOMORROW, May 1st!

Don't miss your chance to apply and be considered for admission. Submit your application now!

Need more time for supplemental materials (caregiver forms, teacher/counselor recommendations)? Don't stress, you can send those in after the deadline.

Apply today and take the first step toward your future!

04/22/2026

Scroll to see all the ways we make sure our students are ready for college success, including: Mentoring, Summer Program Attendance, ACT tutoring, college guidance, and more.

High school freshmen: apply online by our May 1 priority deadline.

Click the link to learn more: https://mindsmattercleveland.org/students/step-1-program-overview

04/07/2026

We’re excited to announce our 2026 Bright Minds Benefit, a night dedicated to celebrating our students and the community that makes their success possible. Join us on Saturday, June 6th at Stillwater Place at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Because of our supporters, our students gain access to life-changing opportunities enabling them to succeed in college and create their own futures. This event helps make it all possible.

Use the link below to purchase tickets and view available sponsorship opportunities. We hope to see you there!

https://mindsmattercleveland.org/gala

04/03/2026

The 2026 Career Incubator is a wrap!

This event brought Cleveland students and dedicated professionals together for a full day of learning, connection, and growth. From building essential workplace skills to exploring high-demand career paths, our students walked away with new confidence, meaningful connections, and a clearer vision for their future.

A huge thank you to our volunteers, supporters, and corporate partners who made this experience possible. The future is bright! 🌟

04/01/2026

Attention high school freshmen! We’re excited to officially kick off our Student Recruitment Cycle for the Class of 2029!

Our application is now OPEN! don’t miss your chance to be part the Minds Matter Class of 2029! Apply by our priority deadline, May 1!

✨ Learn more and apply here: https://mindsmattercleveland.org/students/step-1-program-overview/

03/03/2026

We're excited to announce our second Career Incubator taking place on March 21st in partnership with The Sherwin-Williams Company, JobsOhio, and McKinsey & Company!

This exclusive career-preparatory conference provides Minds Matter and select additional students with hands-on learning, meaningful networking, and sessions on navigating their future careers. Throughout the day, students strengthen essential workplace skills, from communication and professionalism to interviewing and career navigation, while exploring high-demand industries shaping Greater Cleveland's future.

By the end of the experience, Minds Matter students walk away with knowledge, confidence, and new opportunities to set them up for success during and after college.

03/02/2026

What does it take to transform education in Cleveland? Get answers from someone who sees it from all angles. Join Sara Elaqad this Wednesday at noon to hear her dual vantage point leading Minds Matter Cleveland and serving on the Cleveland Metropolitan School District Board. Discover how Minds Matter opens doors to life-changing opportunities for high-achieving, low-income students, while hearing about the policy and governance work shaping Cleveland's schools.

📅 Wednesday, MAR 4 ⏰ Noon-12:30 PM 💻 Virtual 💰 $FREE

🔗 Register now: https://www.cleveleads.org/event/leader-lunch-break-sara-elaqad/

02/09/2026

01/29/2026

January is !

Behind every one of our students is a mentor who listens, encourages, and shows up for them week after week. This month we are especially grateful to the mentors who show up and invest their time in our students, helping them navigate the path to college, and walking alongside them every step of the way.

If you're interested in becoming a mentor at Minds Matter, click here to learn more: mindsmattercleveland.org/volunteers