The Future Legends Scholarship Fund hosted their annual Scholar and Volunteer Celebration Dinner on December 28th at the prestigious Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club. This long-standing tradition, honoring exceptional scholars and dedicated volunteers, held special significance as it originated at the very club where the visionary idea for Future Legends took root, paying homage to the legendary golf pro Chuck Courtney.
The event, attended by an esteemed gathering of students, mentors, board members, and generous donors, was characterized by an atmosphere of heartfelt gratitude. President Eric Manese expressed his appreciation for the mentors in attendance, while Board Member Heather Manion took delight in presenting the accomplished scholars.
Fred Port, the esteemed retired President of Callaway Golf International, served as the engaging Emcee, delivering an inspiring speech that underscored the profound impact of unearned external factors in shaping our life’s trajectory, and stressing the importance of gratitude for these blessings.
The spotlight of the evening was on Scholar Austin Powell, chosen as this year’s Keynote Speaker. As a UCSD Medical Student pursuing a PhD, Powell shared a compelling narrative of overcoming a challenging childhood and credited his journey to success to a fortuitous encounter with UCSD Cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Daniel Gramins. Driven by these experiences, Powell continues to pursue his dreams of becoming a doctor.
The evening’s captivating dinner event was made possible through the generous contribution from an anonymous donor. Our program’s remarkable 100% graduation rate stands as a testament to the unwavering support of our incredible community of backers. We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every one of them.
As the evening concluded, attendees left not only inspired but also received thoughtfully curated gift bags featuring expressions of appreciation and a copy of John Israel’s acclaimed book, “The Mr. Thank You Project.”
Future Legends Scholarship looks forward to building on the momentum of this successful event and remains committed to fostering educational excellence and creating future legends in our community.
The focal point of the event was to honor exceptional scholars who have achieved remarkable milestones, all while fostering a deep sense of community. Future Legends takes immense pride in providing a platform for scholars and mentors to forge meaningful connections, enriching each other’s lives through shared experiences. This event was a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to empowering young minds and nurturing future leaders. The atmosphere was abuzz with conversations that ranged from academic achievements to personal growth journeys, with scholars, mentors, and parents, exchanging stories, aspirations, and laughter.
A highlight of the event was the competitive silent auction, which added an element of excitement and philanthropy to the festivities. Generous donations from Future Legends’ supporters filled the auction with an array of enticing items, ensuring that the event’s proceeds would contribute to the organization’s noble cause.
The annual 4th of July Parade is one of Rancho Santa Fe’s most beloved events and this year was another great turnout of the community. Future Legends representatives were out in full force as well and in addition to the faithful board members and mentors, it was a wonderful opportunity for scholars’ home for the summer to spend some time getting to know one another. They loved the experience of walking in the parade! As they have been doing for the past several years, Future Legends had a tent set up for “Music in the Park” with volunteers ready to share about this amazing scholarship and mentorship program. This organization has strong ties to the community and the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club, and they were grateful to be able to show their support.
Vearl and Mary Ann off they go,
Leaving San Diego’s sunny glow.
Their friends will miss them, that’s for sure,
But Texas welcomes them with Southern lure.
Goodbye to beaches and ocean waves,
But hello to BBQ and cowboy ways.
No more strolls by the Pacific shore,
But howdy to rodeos and so much more.
Farewell to Pacific sunsets over the bay,
Now a shout out to big skies in the heat of each day.
No more mild weather, all year round,
Tip your hat to Southern hospitality that abounds.
Yep, good bye San Diego’s sunny glow,
Ya’all, this ain’t their first rodeo!
So Vearl and Mary Ann, don’t you fret,
Ft Worth has so much to offer yet.
Family, friends, making new memories, too
But always remember, we’ll be here, missing you.
With Great Love and Support,
Your Future Legends Board & Friends
Future Legends annual Summer Celebration put a spotlight on the scholars, mentors and volunteers at the heart of the scholarship and mentoring organization. Chairman Vearl Smith emceed the proceedings and welcomed speeches from prominent supporters Bob Baker, Dan Green and Jim Boyce. Each Future Legends Scholar also took to the podium, giving updates about educational successes and future plans. Most stirring were the words each student shared in recognition of support from their families and individual Future Legends mentors.
Future Legends, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Rancho Santa Fe, convened the inaugural meeting of a new group called Legendary Women (neé Mères et Grand Mères). This new organization augments and supports the work of helping deserving scholars realize their dreams of a college education. As a group formed for women, by women, it reflects the unique abilities of mothers and grandmothers to identify, create, nurture, and lead the way to a brighter future. This group requires no dues, no fees, only a willingness to create a positive change for students in the community. The launch event featured an incredible performance by Tony Award Winner Christian Hoff of “Jersey Boys” fame, singer Melissa Hoff and the SCPA All-Stars, a group of high school jazz musicians.
Future Legends believes in the power of saying “Thank You!” The 2018 Appreciation Dinner was hosted at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club to honor all Scholars, Donors and Supporters of the Future Legends Program. Attendees heard words of gratitude throughout the night from emcee, and Future Legends co-founder, Dr. Jeff Javelet, and various dignitaries including Future Legends President Eric Manese. Marketing technology expert Chris Fawcett gave a VIP “sneak peak” into Future Legends re-branding initiative and all-new website. Guests were then amazed by the speed painter Amy Burkman who created two portraits, in memoriam, celebrating the lives of Jane Larsen and Tom Ault who each exemplified the spirit of service and giving that makes Future Legends what it is today.
