Hundreds of high school students stepped into Confluence Preparatory Academy (CPA) during the Fall 2025 College & Career Fair with hopes for their futures. By the end of the morning, several walked out with life-changing news: on-the-spot scholarships, college acceptances, and a clearer understanding of the academic and career pathways ahead of them.
As one of the most significant annual events across Confluence Academies, the fair reflects the network’s commitment to preparing students to—and through—college and career. This year’s fair brought together more than 70 colleges, trade schools, military branches, career organizations, and community partners.
“The College and Career Fair requires intentional planning, and I was so excited to see so many community partners, both new and longstanding, show up for our scholars. Access to many of these institutions can be challenging, so bringing them directly into our school removes a critical barrier and creates real pathways to postsecondary access and opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Cierra Wourman, College and Career Counselor at CPA.
Hundreds of Confluence students participated, meeting one-on-one with recruiters and exploring programs that matched their goals and strengths. For many students—especially those who will be the first in their families to attend college—the morning offered a powerful look at what is possible after high school.
The idea of what’s possible became a reality when several major scholarships were announced. Harris–Stowe State University awarded $130,000 in scholarships as part of its Presidential Dollars for Scholars Tour, which officially launched at the CPA event. Saint Louis University awarded two half-tuition education scholarships, and Bennett College—an all-women’s HBCU in Greensboro, North Carolina—extended several acceptance offers on the spot. These awards not only recognized student achievement but also helped students imagine themselves on a college campus with newfound confidence.
Representatives from the universities said the energy and preparation they see at Confluence is what draws them back year after year. Lance Smith, Assistant Director of Recruitment for Harris–Stowe State University, said he sees something special at CPA: “There is a certain buy-in by the educators and staff and how they pour into their students. They show them that there is life outside of St. Louis and how to navigate that life. As the only HBCU in St. Louis, we want every scholar to know we are here for them—and we want to see them succeed.” Smith added that this commitment is why it’s important for the HBCU to award scholarships to students at the College and Career Fair.
The fair also served as an inspiring milestone for younger learners. Eighth graders from South City Academy—who have demonstrated strong academic performance and potential—were invited to attend and received acceptance letters for their next step, a possible high school career at CPA. For these students, the morning served as an early and motivating preview of where dedication and effort can lead.
This event is one part of Confluence Academies’ broader vision to ensure all students are prepared not only to reach college and career opportunities, but to thrive once they get there. As part of that commitment, the network fully funds dual enrollment programs with Harris–Stowe, St. Louis Community College, and Ranken Technical College, which allow students to earn college credit at no cost. The network also funds college tours that introduce scholars to campuses across the country.
For many students, the Fall 2025 College & Career Fair is a turning point. It affirms their hard work, expands their options, and reminds them that their goals are within reach. The day reinforces a simple but powerful message: opportunities are out there, and Confluence Academies is dedicated to helping every scholar seize them.