Highlighting Ava’s Journey: A Story of Resilience with Class 101-Dayton

At the Unleashed Brands Foundation, we are proud to highlight the remarkable work of Class 101-Dayton and their inspiring student, Ava. Since 2018, Class 101-Dayton has provided over $60,000 in pro bono college planning, with a special focus on students from foster care. Ava’s story exemplifies the profound impact of their support.

Ava’s Inspiring Path

Ava joined Class 101-Dayton in November 2022, recommended by friends who had previously benefited from their services. From the beginning, it was clear that Ava possessed exceptional maturity and determination. Karen Lane DeRosa, owner of Class 101-Dayton, noted Ava’s uncommon maturity, shaped by her challenging experiences. Karen has built a great relationship with Ava, guiding her through every step of her college planning journey.

In August 2020, Ava faced a life-altering event when she and her three younger siblings were placed into foster care. Despite this upheaval, Ava’s dedication to her siblings and her own goals remained strong. She shared her desire to become a social worker who truly understands and empathizes with others in similar situations.

Achievements with Class 101-Dayton

With Class 101-Dayton’s support, Ava achieved her goal ACT score and gained acceptance to every college on her list, including Miami University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Her success contributed to Class 101-Dayton’s impressive 92 percent acceptance rate and over $38.1 million in merit scholarships for the Class of 2024. Ava also received numerous scholarships, including $12,500 in local awards and the Munoz Foundation Scholarship for $20,000, awarded by NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz.

A Bright Future

Ava’s siblings are thriving with their foster family, and Class 101-Dayton plans to extend pro bono college planning services to her siblings and her foster family’s children in the future. Ava will attend Miami University to study Social Work, aiming to become a substance abuse counselor and make a positive impact on others.

We at the Unleashed Brands Foundation are honored to celebrate Ava’s journey and the incredible work of Class 101-Dayton. Karen DeRosa’s dedication and the strong relationship she has built with Ava are a testament to the transformative power of personalized support. Ava’s story is a testament to resilience and the difference that dedicated support can make.