FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hartford Symphony Orchestra Announces 2026 Next Generation Impact Scholarship Recipients

Hartford, CT (April 30, 2026) — The Hartford Symphony Orchestra (HSO) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Next Generation Impact Scholarship, recognizing four outstanding graduating seniors who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, community engagement, and a commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities.

This year’s recipients are Ava Acevedo, Valeria Olave, Emily Romero, and Jada Wilson, representing Windsor High School and Hartford Public High School. Each student will receive a $1,250 scholarship in support of their continued education.

Selected through a competitive application process, these students exemplify the values at the heart of the scholarship: initiative, service, and a vision for positive change—along with a meaningful connection to the role of music in their lives.

Ava Acevedo, a senior at Windsor High School, has demonstrated strong academic achievement and leadership. She plans to pursue biological engineering, with the goal of creating solutions that improve lives. She sees music as a powerful source of connection and inspiration in her leadership journey.

Valeria Olave, a senior at Hartford Public High School, is recognized for her academic excellence and collaborative leadership. A dedicated peer mentor, she plans to attend the University of Connecticut and continue her commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive communities.

Emily Romero, a senior at Windsor High School, is a dynamic leader who has served as President of Student Council and the Teens of Praise Gospel Choir. An accomplished student and active mentor, she plans to study Political Science—possibly on a pre-law track—with the goal of becoming a lobbyist who influences legislation and creates programs to serve the community.

Jada Wilson, a senior at Hartford Public High School, serves as President of the Outstanding Women of Leadership Society and Editor-in-Chief of her school newspaper. Known for her integrity and drive, she is committed to using her leadership to help build stronger, more inclusive communities.

“Each of these students brings a powerful combination of intellect, leadership, and compassion,” said Steve Collins, President & CEO of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. “They represent the next generation of changemakers, and we are honored to support them as they continue their journeys.”

Scholarship recipients will be recognized at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra’s Inspire Breakfast on May 20, 2026, at The Bushnell Performing Arts Center.

About the Hartford Symphony Orchestra
The Hartford Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1934, is Connecticut’s premier musical organization and presents more than 100 concerts annually, reaching approximately 95,000 audience members each year through performances and community programs statewide.