Action Items

• Get to know three AEF volunteers and why they invest in our next generation of leaders. 
  
  
• It's scholarship season and you can make a difference. 
  
  
• Buy tickets for the annual AEF VIP July 4th Celebration with stellar fireworks and monumental views. 

April was National Volunteer Appreciation Month and we celebrate YOU, the people who make a difference in the lives of students across our city. Thank you.

Representation is a key pillar of AEF. Giving young people opportunities to interact one-on-one with professionals who look and sound like them, and have familiar stories, builds confidence and sense of belonging personally and professionally.

"As a native Washingtonian from east of the river, it is especially rewarding to share my journey with kids who are where I was decades ago. Seeing their eyes open to new possibilities is when I know that I’ve done something special."

- Taren E. Bradley, Director of Corporate Events, Magnolia Bluebird Design & Events

Want to volunteer your time this spring or summer? 

It’s scholarship season. Make a difference for the next generation of hospitality and tourism, culinary arts and communications leaders. Your donation helps. Hear directly from scholarship winners about their scholarship’s impact.

Since 2015, AEF has awarded nearly $120,000 in scholarships to Washington, DC students who have demonstrated success, leadership and service in their communities. 

Donate to the AEF Scholarship Fund before the 2023 award announcements on May 19.

Attend the Westin Giving Brunch in Benefit of AEF. 

Where: Westin, Washington D.C. City Center, Infamy Bar and Restaurant 

When: Sunday, May 21, 12-2 p.m. 

Join the party with a reservation of four or more and receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly!

Enjoy brunch and a portion of the proceeds from the Westin will benefit the AEF Scholarship Fund. 

Did you know that AEF has a Student Advisory Board of Directors made up of current Academy students and alumni?

This spring, alumni members are going back to school and visiting Academy classrooms to talk about how the Academies prepared them up for a career in hospitality and answer questions about post-graduation. They’re also recruiting students to serve on the Board.

"Visiting classrooms to speak to students about my time on the Board with the American Experience Foundation has been a full circle experience. My time in my Academy was integral to the work I do today, as well as the person I have become. I appreciate being able to speak to students about taking advantage of their resources and opportunities."

– Lauren Brown, Howard University Class of 2022

Join AEF for our annual rooftop celebration on July 4th from 7-10 p.m. at the American Pharmacists Association. Your ticket supports scholarships for DC high school students!

• Enjoy great food, drinks and family-friendly fun
• Experience DC’s spectacular fireworks show from a private rooftop
• Show your company’s support by sponsoring the event
  
  

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