A Warm Welcome
Welcome back to a new season of purpose. As classrooms reopen and families reset their routines, the Soaring Eagle Alliance remains a place where students are encouraged, parents are equipped, and community leaders walk alongside one another.
This month we celebrate student achievement at our first STEM Showcase and continue opening doors to leadership, scholarships, and real-world skills. The Eagle Advisory Council and Leadership Circle remain focused on programs that strengthen families and help young people rise with confidence.
Eagle Advisory Council Member Spotlight
Capt. Richard S. Ryan, U.S. Navy (Ret.)
On August 12, 2026, Leesburg marked 250 years since Virginia’s first public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Loudoun County Courthouse. A commemorative plaque was unveiled at the 1895 Courthouse.
Capt. Ryan served as one of the readers, standing with the Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Descendants of Valley Forge, historic societies, and local volunteers.
His service reflects the Alliance’s commitment to civic memory and to sharing Virginia’s story with students and families.
From $100 to a Legacy: George Mason Names a Center to Honor Anil and Anupama Sharma
George Mason University’s Costello College of Business has named its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship the Anil and Anupama Sharma Center, honoring a gift from McLean entrepreneur Anil Sharma, CEO of 22nd Century Technologies, and his wife, Anupama.
Anil Sharma came to the United States from India in 1997 with $100 and built a $600 million firm. Their gift will expand programs for students, aspiring founders, and innovators. A formal celebration is planned this fall.
Free Soaring Eagle Resource Powerhouse
A curated hub of free tools, job fairs, and support for students, families, and professionals. Instantly access opportunities that accelerate your career and ease everyday challenges.
Exclusive Internship, Scholarship, and Job Opportunities — Join the Soaring Eagle WhatsApp Groups
The best internships, scholarships, and jobs rarely appear on public listings. Soaring Eagle Alliance maintains 3 private WhatsApp groups for students and families seeking timely, high-quality opportunities.
Groups 1 and 2 are nearly at capacity. Join Group 3 to receive curated alerts and stay connected to the next opportunity.
Priority Access for Our Newsletter Subscribers
Exclusive to SEA Members & Newsletter Subscribers.
Loudoun Workforce Development Month — September 2026
Free résumé reviews, interview practice, hiring events, NOVA certification pathways, and a session on job searching in the age of AI. Open to students, parents, and professionals.
American Job Centers — Free Career Help Nationwide
Available year-round at no cost through the U.S. Department of Labor’s American Job Center network. Students, parents, and working professionals can receive résumé reviews, interview practice, job-search workshops, hiring events, and career coaching.
Professional Insight of the Month
Last month we covered who can see a young adult’s health records. This month we turn to school records.
At age 18 — or when college begins — FERPA gives the student control of grades, bills, schedules, and discipline records. Schools generally may not share that information with a parent unless the student signs a release.
If you still help with tuition or need updates, ask the student to complete the school’s free FERPA (and parent-portal or billing) form before classes begin. The student decides what is shared..
Eagle Legacy Award
Nominations remain open year-round. If you know a person or organization lifting families and students in our region, we welcome your nomination.
UPCOMING EVENT
Saturday, September 26, 2026 — First Annual STEM Showcase & Interactive Festival
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Claude Moore Recreation & Community Center
46105 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling, VA
A free celebration of student work for 5th grade through college.
All student presenter speaking slots are now filled. Additional requests will be waitlisted. Students who still wish to share their work are welcome to attend. If time allows, we may offer one to two minutes at the end of the program.
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
