STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Your Support, Their Success: Real Stories of Impact
Every success story at EVIT begins with an opportunity—an opportunity made possible by donors like you.
Through scholarships the EVIT Foundation empowers students to pursue their passions and build meaningful careers.
Your generosity helps provide hands-on training, industry-standard equipment, and financial support that open doors to brighter futures.
Explore the stories below to see how your support is transforming lives and shaping the next generation of skilled professionals.
MADELYN HARDLEY
“During my two years at EVIT, I learned so much and had incredible opportunities! At first, I wasn’t sure if radio was for me, but after learning how it works and doing my first practice show, I knew it was my passion. Dave Juday and Michael Mallace taught me so much during that time. With radio, I can express my personality behind the mic, discussing whatever I’m passionate about and sharing myself with others. Thanks to EVIT, I’m now a promotions assistant at Desert Valley Media, and I hope to become an on-air talent there. I was also recently nominated as one of five contestants for Best DJ in the US by the John Drury Awards. I can’t wait to see where my broadcasting career takes me.”
JOSECARLOS DE SANTIAGO
“I graduated from the EVIT Criminal Justice program in 2020 and then completed my degree at ASU, graduating early in 2023. During my time at ASU, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at the University of Seville in Spain, where I was invited to teach classes on the US Criminal Justice system as a visiting professor. I also traveled to France, Italy, England, and Portugal. Now, I’m applying to become a Mesa Police Officer.
I always knew I wanted to make a difference in the world. My dream is to become a law enforcement officer—first as a police officer, then with the FBI—protecting the peace and ensuring people can live their lives free from violence and fear. I’m grateful for the EVIT Criminal Justice programs that helped me with internships and networking opportunities.”
EDEN SELMAN
“I had always dreamed of being on the radio. I was convinced it was just a dream until I came across the Radio/Audio Production program, and it quickly became a reality. I spent my second year at EVIT hosting a live radio show every day from 12-1 pm. This experience showed me that my dream was within reach. It proved that it’s possible to turn my passion into a career. The program gave me real-world experience in the field I want to work in, prepared me for my future, and even gave me a head start on the next step in my career. I’m now a promotions assistant at Hubbard Radio KUPD and will continue to chase my dreams and aspirations. A big thanks goes to the amazing instructors and mentors at EVIT who helped and pushed me to get to where I am now. Words can’t describe how grateful I am for the program and the support
EVAN DEAN
“EVIT gave me a head start in the competitive field of post production, and now I’m a Recordist and Editor for Voice & Script International in Los Angeles. The Radio and Audio Production program at EVIT provided hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Pro Tools and professional broadcast equipment. During my time in the program, I engineered live high school sports broadcasts and produced content for 88.7 The Pulse, experiences that directly prepared me for my current role. The professional environment and dedicated instructors at EVIT equipped me with the skills I now use daily, whether recording in the booth or editing behind the scenes. The more I invested in my education at EVIT, the more I gained, thanks to their great instructors.”
STEVEN CUSUMANO
“Pursuing a career in baseball broadcasting and play-by-play, the opportunity to get on air as a junior in high school through EVIT’s radio program was pivotal to my career development. Having the chance to gain valuable on-air experience at such a young age allowed me to work on my delivery and on-air etiquette as I entered the competitive landscape of broadcasting in college and professional baseball. Additionally, learning from real-world broadcasting professionals and building relationships through internships and part-time opportunities during my time at EVIT helped me forge a path for the rest of my career, giving me an advantage that I am still grateful for to this day.”
BRONSON BROWN
“I mentioned to my guidance counselor at Saguaro that I wanted to go to EVIT and study welding. The counselor was very direct with me: ‘Bronson, you need to be on a path to graduation. You’ll need to take summer school to make up class work.’ So I did. I loved my welding class. Our Welding Team went to the SkillsUSA Arizona State Competition and won, which led us to Nationals! We didn’t win there, but what an experience it was. I graduated from Saguaro on Thursday and started working as a full-time welder the very next day. Thank you, EVIT and Mr. Zamora.”
AT EVIT, CAREER DREAMS COME TO LIFE!
EVIT provides hands-on training for high school students and adults, equipping them with real-world skills and industry-standard certifications.