A Warm Welcome
The school year has settled into its rhythm, and so has the Alliance. September gave students a stage of their own. October is for thanks, and for gathering again. Whether you presented, cheered from a chair, mentored a student, or simply stayed with us, you are part of this work. We are glad you are here with us. The Eagle Advisory Council and Leadership Circle remain focused on programs that strengthen families and help young people rise with confidence.
Soaring Eagle Leader Spotlight
Dr. Shashi Chopra and Ravi Chopra
For more than fifty years, Dr. Shashi Chopra and Ravi Chopra have served together in education, senior support, and cultural life through the Global Seva Fund, Rajdhani Mandir, and the Sadabahaar Senior Group.
In 2026, Washington Adventist University honored them with the Excellence in Philanthropy Award at its Visionaries Gala, “Beyond the Gateway,” recognizing their more than five decades of service through the Global Seva Fund.
They were also recognized by Loudoun County Treasurer Henry C. Eickelberg, former Virginia State Delegate Geary Higgins, and Aparna Madireddi, Board Member of Virginia Humanities, for their ongoing work of giving seniors a place to gather, socialize, and share their talents.
Learn more:
Soaring Eagle Alliance Advisory Council Spotlight
Simon Lobo
On September 13, 2026, Advisory Council member Simon Lobo took on a new role as first-time producer of Dad’s Dream, screened at the 15th Annual DC South Asian Film Festival at Regal Cinemas in Rockville. The story will feel familiar to many families: a parent dreams one future, and a child is already writing another. A very talented cast and crew joined him for the evening, and a full theater watched a Council member bring that story to the screen. Service takes many forms, including a story well told.
Students Took the Stage: First STEM Showcase
On September 26, 2026, the Claude Moore Recreation & Community Center in Sterling filled with projects, questions, and conversations. High school Students presented their work that they had built themselves. Families listened. Alliance leaders came to encourage, not to take the microphone. Speaking slots were full before the program began. Students who could not present were still welcome in the room.
This was our first annual student-led STEM Showcase, and the day belonged to them.
Professional Insight of the Month
An internship title is not an offer. Before a student says yes, ask three things in writing: Is it paid? How many hours a week? Who supervises the work? At a for-profit employer, an unpaid internship is allowed only when the student, not the company, is the main beneficiary of the training. A short list of duties protects both sides.
UPCOMING SIGNATURE EVENT
Ascent 2026: The Soaring Eagle Alliance Annual Luncheon
Ticket Sales, Date, and Venue Will be Announced Soon
Every member is invited: students, families, mentors, and community partners. The afternoon will honor the people who make this work possible and look ahead to the year we are building together. Date, venue, and program are still being set. Ticket details will be announced when they are final.
Exclusive to SEA Members & Newsletter Subscribers.
Registered Apprenticeship Finder
Paid work, a mentor, and a credential you can carry to the next job. Search openings and apply with the employer or program sponsor. A strong path for students and for anyone changing fields.
College Scorecard
Before a deposit is paid, compare cost, graduation rate, typical debt, and what graduates earn. Free, and run by the U.S. Department of Education.
Soaring Eagle is Expanding
We now have members from across the United States and Canada, so updates are sorted into 5 WhatsApp groups.
Jobs: Job postings only - Click to Join
Housing: Rentals and short-term stays, for members listing a property or students relocating for an internship, an entry-level role, or a job - Click to Join
Groups 1–3: Internships, apprenticeships, scholarships, and related opportunities
Groups 1 and 2 are full. Group 3 still has room - Click to Join
Free Soaring Eagle Resource Powerhouse
A verified shelf of tools, job fairs, and practical help, kept for students, parents, and professionals who would rather not hunt through ten tabs. New listings go up only after they are checked.
Join the Alliance
Whether you are a student seeking leadership pathways, a parent looking for community resources, or a professional ready to give back — there is a place for you.
Looking forward to connecting with you next month.
Aparna Madireddi
Founder, Soaring Eagle Alliance
https://soareagle.us
