Talent Is Everywhere. Opportunity Is Not.

The Capstone Equity Initiative (CEI) is an equity-centered education and mentoring pilot program designed to close a growing opportunity gap in college readiness. As selective colleges increasingly value independent research, leadership, innovation, and real-world problem solving, access to capstone mentoring has quietly become a competitive advantage—one that is often privatized and out of reach for first-generation and low-income students.

CEI exists to change that.

By combining applied research with a multi-city pilot, CEI expands access to high-impact capstone mentoring for students from under-resourced communities—ensuring talent, curiosity, and ambition are not limited by ability to pay.

Across the U.S., many high school students are told to “stand out” in the college admissions process without access to the experiences that define distinction. Sustained project mentoring—supporting research, social impact initiatives, business ventures, and creative work—is increasingly critical, yet rarely available in under-resourced schools.

At the same time, shifts in the admissions landscape have placed greater emphasis on experiences that require guidance, feedback, and strategic storytelling. Without equitable access to mentoring, capable students are disadvantaged not by lack of potential—but by lack of opportunity.

CEI addresses this gap by reimagining how teaching, mentoring, and learning work together.

CEI is built through partnership.

Whether you are a school leader, community organization, mentor, funder, or advocate for equity in education, we invite you to join us in expanding access to opportunity. Contact us TODAY!

→ Partner with CEI
→ Become a Mentor
→ Support the Initiative