More than 100 young professionals gathered with their families, employers, mentors, and community partners at the 2026 Ladders for Leaders (LFL) end of Summer Celebration to mark the completion of six weeks of paid internships across Central Texas. The evening celebrated not only the end of a successful summer, but also the resilience, growth, and determination each intern demonstrated throughout their journey.
Just six weeks earlier, these young leaders attended Signing Day, where they met their employers and stepped into professional workplaces for the very first time. This summer, 21 business partners opened their doors to Ladders for Leaders interns, providing mentorship, professional guidance, and hands-on experiences across industries including healthcare, technology, media, hospitality, law, and nonprofit organizations. Since then, they have taken on new responsibilities, contributed to meaningful projects, built professional relationships, and gained real-world experience across industries including healthcare, technology, media, hospitality, law, and nonprofit organizations.
Celebrating Class of 2026
“Throughout this internship, I’ve strengthened my communication skills, refined my project management skills, and built more confidence in sharing my ideas.”
Hosted at The Center for Government and Civic Service at Austin Community College, the celebration featured reflections from LFL intern Sydney Nelson, who shared how her internship challenged her to grow professionally, and Northshore Media CEO Kevin Chin, who spoke about the importance of investing in young talent and creating meaningful workplace experiences.
“It is paramount that we invest now into these future leaders that will innovate new technologies, develop life-changing procedures, and continue to build a strong and resilient workforce for future generations to come.”
Looking Ahead
Texas State Representative Donna Howard congratulated the young leaders and reminded interns of the impact they can have on their future.
“As Texans, we are at our best when we believe that every young person deserves a fair shot to succeed. That means expanding opportunity, supporting strong public schools, investing in workforce development, and making sure that talent determines how far someone can go rather than one’s circumstances. Programs like Ladders for Leaders bring that vision to life by helping equip young people with the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams.”
Staffers from the Office of Texas Senator Donna Campbell also congratulated interns on completing this important milestone. “Completing this program is an achievement you should be proud of. The time, effort, and dedication you’ve shown over the past few weeks have made a foundation that will benefit you for years to come.”
During the celebration, Congressman Pete Sessions‘ office honored Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area with an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol. The presentation recognized the organization’s “invaluable commitment to the future of Austin, the future of the state, and the future of this country,” highlighting the lasting impact BGCAA has on young people and their communities.
As the evening came to a close, one message resonated throughout the room: the Ladders for Leaders experience extends far beyond six weeks. It opens doors, builds confidence, and helps young people discover what’s possible when a community invests in their potential.
Congratulations to the 2026 Ladders for Leaders interns, and thank you to our families, mentors, employer partners, donors, and community leaders for helping build the next generation of Central Texas professionals.
