Padra Xiong '18

All through high school, Padra Xiong ’18 took part in Upward Bound – a federally funded education program designed to help low-income and first-generation students find their way to and through college. This summer, thanks to a stipend from the Center for Ethical Leadership in Action (CELA), she’s in a position to give back while she gains valuable work experience with TRIO Upward Bound at Metropolitan State University.

“CELA is making it possible for Bennies to really get a chance to take part in the internship that they want and still have some sort of income to support themselves throughout the summer,” she says.

With her talents, some hard work and a little help, Padra is definitely on her way up. “There have been countless opportunities that have come my way at Saint Ben’s,” she says. “I believe I’ve taken advantage of them the best that I can.”