Industry News
Citisoft’s First Scholar Graduates, Marking a Milestone in Youth Guidance Partnership
Citisoft today announced that its first Citisoft Scholar, Evan Lewis, will graduate on 16 May, marking a key milestone in the firm’s partnership with Youth Guidance and its commitment to long-term community investment. Youth Guidance works with students across Boston through school-based programs focused on academic success, mentorship, and social-emotional development.
| Launched in 2022, the Citisoft Scholars Program awards one student per year an annual scholarship for the full duration of their undergraduate degree. Designed as a sustained, multiyear initiative, the program aims to remove financial uncertainty while surrounding scholars with mentorship, professional exposure, and encouragement. |
Evan Lewis graduated from Lasell University with a degree in Sports Management. During his studies, he completed an internship with the Dorchester YMCA and participated in courses including Sport Administration and Parks and Recreation.
“Citisoft connected me with people who helped me through college, particularly through networking, and helped take the burden off my shoulders when it came to expenses like books,” said Evan Lewis. “My advice to future scholars is to allow yourself to learn, step outside your comfort zone, and take care of yourself.”
Shawn Brown, executive director of Youth Guidance Boston, Citisoft’s long-term partner, highlighted the significance of sustained support:
“At Youth Guidance, we see every day how the right combination of support, opportunity, and belief can change a young person’s trajectory. The Citisoft Scholars Program represents all three. This partnership not only helps students like Evan access higher education, it surrounds them with a network of professionals who are invested in their long-term success. That kind of sustained commitment is what makes a lasting difference.”
Looking ahead
Tom Secaur, Global Chief Operating Officer reaffirmed Citisoft’s commitment to the program.
“When we launched the Citisoft Scholars Program, we were deliberate about building something long‑term—something that would support students through the full arc of their undergraduate journey,” said Tom Secaur, Global Chief Operating Officer at Citisoft. “Seeing Evan graduate brings that intent to life. It reinforces our commitment to continuing this program in the years ahead, working alongside Youth Guidance to support future scholars as they navigate college and take their next steps beyond it.”
Evan’s graduation represents the completion of the program’s first four‑year cycle and reinforces Citisoft’s commitment to durable, relationship‑driven community engagement.
About Youth Guidance
Youth Guidance is a national nonprofit that creates and implements school-based programs that enable youth to overcome obstacles, focus on their education, and succeed in school and life. Its flagship programs, BAM and WOW, serve more than 15,000 students annually in nearly 200 schools across Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.