When we announced our inaugural Bold Futures Scholarship Powered by TIAA, we were already looking forward to the day when we’d be able to introduce you to the winners.

That day has arrived!

This program is designed to help talented students take the next step toward careers in high-growth, high-impact industries across business, technology, and financial services.

“Our partnership with TIAA represents more than just a scholarship — it’s a shared commitment to empowering students with the resources and confidence to succeed in a range of competitive and evolving industries,” says Christie Garton, founder and CEO of 1,000 Dreams Funds.

Introducing Our Bold Futures Scholars

With that, let’s meet our TEN scholars — each of whom are receiving a $1,000 scholarship to support educational expenses that extend beyond tuition. Plus, each of them will receive mentorship from TIAA professionals and an on-site visit to one of TIAA’s major offices in Frisco, TX and Charlotte, NC.  These funds and experiential learning opportunities are so valuable because they give students the chance to unlock opportunities that can accelerate their academic and professional growth.

• Alana S.: Duke University – “After completing my Master of Engineering in Design and Technology Innovation degree, I intend to work as a design technologist or UX engineer and hope to build digital products that are intuitive, equitable, and genuinely improve everyday life by removing friction, fostering authentic connection, and bringing joy into daily experiences.”
• Avia B.: Voorhees University – “My career goal is to become an IT consultant specializing in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and business systems optimization.”
• Danielle Z.: University of Texas at Austin – “I hope to make a lasting impact on the quality and accessibility of the food people consume every day by helping to address the growing issue of unnecessary and harmful additives in packaged foods.”
• Juan B.: The University of Texas at Arlington – “My goal is to forge a successful and academically prepared career in my intended field of work, real estate, and finance.”
• Kelsey H.: North Carolina State University – “My vision is to conduct research and work with transportation systems and sustainable urban planning. Through my designs, I plan to advocate for accessible development for pedestrians and road safety.”
• Marienis P.: The University of Texas at Austin – “I want to grow within the product marketing world and eventually step into a senior role at a major tech company. I also want to use my career growth to become a mentor for the younger generation entering this field.”
• Nathan H.: North Carolina State University – “Since machines are only becoming more relevant in the job field, I plan to use my degree to build and improve upon these machines so I can help people in the healthcare, financial, and security sectors.”
• Mikaylah O.: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – “My long-term goal is to build a career at the intersection of information science and emerging technology, with a focus on creating ethical AI systems that produce meaningful social impact.”
• Tammy N.: University of Houston – “As a first-generation Vietnamese American, I view education as a pathway to creating long-term opportunities for myself and my family. My long-term goal is to become a CPA and build a career in public accounting.”
• Yehab G.: University of Texas at Dallas – “My goal is to build a career at the intersection of technology and business, specifically in AI -riven automation and financial technology. Long term, I see myself in a product or strategy role at a fintech or enterprise software company.”

Congratulations, recipients! These 10 truly stood out not only for their talent and demonstrated financial need, but also for their strong alignment with TIAA’s core businesses.

Together with TIAA, we’re investing in students today and helping shape a more innovative, inclusive, and dynamic workforce for tomorrow.

We can’t wait to see the bold next steps these winners will take!