.webp)
Thursday, Sept. 10th
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - In collaboration with United Black Players and Elevate Indianapolis, the United Soccer League (USL) today announced that Kayla Lacombe has been selected as the fifth recipient of the USL Impact Scholarship to Bellevue University, the Official Education Partner of the USL.
As part of their multi-year partnership, the USL and Bellevue University worked with the United Black Players and Elevate Indianapolis to identify scholarship candidates through local non-profit organizations that benefit youth in underserved communities.
Lacombe stood out for her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others by creating programs that expand access to healthcare, education and sports. As a former student athlete, Lacombe has demonstrated she embodies the hard work, perseverance and drive that will continue to shape her educational and professional goals.
"We’re proud of the opportunities this scholarship has created over the past five years," said Dr. Mary Hawkins, President of Bellevue University. “Through our partnership with the USL and collaboration with United Black Players and Elevate Indianapolis, we’re pleased to support Kayla as she pursues her degree and works toward her goal of building programs that ease financial barriers for students and families.
"United Black Players is proud to join Bellevue University and the USL in expanding access to higher education for students from underserved communities,” said Duke Lacroix, Vice President of United Black Players. “Many of our members have experienced firsthand how education can open doors and shape opportunities both on and off the field. Kayla’s commitment to using her education to create opportunities for others embodies the purpose of this scholarship, and we look forward to seeing where her journey takes her.”
“We’re grateful to the USL and Bellevue University for their continued commitment to removing barriers for students as they pursue higher education,” said Aaron Story, CEO of Elevate Indianapolis. “Kayla has shown tremendous ambition and a genuine desire to use her success to pay it forward to other students and families. We’re proud of all she has accomplished and excited to see her take this next step.”
Since the beginning of their partnership, the USL and Bellevue University have awarded more than 100 scholarships to players and staff across the Gainbridge Super League, USL Championship and USL League One. Bellevue University also offers tuition assistance to club and league employees, season ticket members, and family members of staff, coaches, and players.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
About Bellevue University:
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is one of the country’s top 20 online universities and has more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The USL works with Bellevue University on coursework and curriculum integrations, providing USL guest speakers in the classroom, and exploring mentoring and league-based internship opportunities. For additional information on Bellevue University and course offerings, please visit www.bellevue.edu.
About Elevate Indianapolis:
Elevate Indianapolis is a 501-c-3 nonprofit organization dedicated to building long-term, life-changing relationships with urban youth in Indianapolis by providing holistic, in-school and year-round mentoring that equips students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally; through full-time Teacher- Mentors who walk alongside students with consistent support and high expectations, Elevate helps young people develop character, pursue upward mobility, stay on track to graduate, and become leaders who contribute meaningfully to their communities. Elevate Indianapolis has served the Central Indiana community for 10 years, developing the character, strengths, leadership, and futures of students living in underserved communities through our innovative model rooted in transformative relationships. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.elevateindy.org to learn more and connect to our impact.
For More Information Contact:
Aaron Story, President & CEO
Elevate Indianapolis, Inc.
Aaron@elevateindy.org
