The Latest From Our Scholars

Ellen DeGeneres took a shine to Kalen Allen’s YouTube recipe “critiques,” and now Kalen is shining under the bright lights of Hollywood! Kalen left Kansas City a few years ago to pursue a degree in film and theatre at Temple University in Philadelphia. Then, in late 2017, “Ellen” came calling. Kalen not only appeared on the show, but he landed a deal to create videos exclusively for www.ellentube.com and soon packed his bags for L.A.!

Now, Kalen is a regular on “Ellen,” video-critiquing much more than food and even serving as Ellen’s guest DJ this week!

Now a sophomore at St. Teresa’s Academy, Faith Andrews-O’Neal has recently been an awesome spokesperson for the Vincent Legacy Scholarship program. She was a special guest March 17 on KPRS-FM’s “Generation Rap,” sharing how the scholarship has allowed her to take advanced classes and grow as a dancer. Faith also discussed her experiences as a Vincent Legacy Scholar on Starlight’s new video series, “Talkin’ with Taylor.”

Watch Faith on “Talkin’ with Taylor:

Faith is definitely keeping busy. At St. Teresa’s, she is a sophomore class representative, member of drama club and a tutor in French. At Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice, she is studying ballet and pointe. She also takes Horton-style modern and ballet classes at Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey.

Let’s give a big roar for Lauren Howard! A freshman at Lee’s Summit North High School, Lauren performed in her school’s February production of Lion King, Jr. Greg and Rebecca Reid were there to cheer her on.

Lauren has had a busy 2018 so far. She recently sang a solo at a benefit concert for ReDiscover, received a 1 on her vocal solo for district choir, received a 1 on her baritone sax for district band, and will compete at the state level April 28. Lauren also plans to audition to perform the National Anthem at a Kansas City T-Bones game and will participate in Lee’s Summit’s Got Talent and the KC SuperStar competition.