The 2024 McDonald’s APA Next Summit, in partnership with CAPE, hosted by accomplished actors Ming-Na Wen and Ramona Young, celebrated the achievements and potential of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students. This year’s summit focused on “Equal Access, Boundless Success.”
For nearly 40 years, McDonald’s USA Owner/Operators have been steadfast in their commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of students across the country. This year, McDonald’s continued that tradition by awarding over $2.5 million in scholarship funds to help students pursue higher education. The McDonald’s APA Next Education Program has been empowering AAPI students for over 15 years. McDonald’s has awarded scholarships for 95 students this year alone and has been committed to breaking down education barriers for AAPI students since 2003, with its co-founding of APIA Scholars.
“I’m truly honored to be part of McDonald’s APA Next Summit, helping to empower AAPI students in their academic journeys and showing them that their potential has no limits,” said Ming-Na Wen. “I look forward to meeting the students and hope to give them insight and inspiration as they move forward boldly, follow their hearts, and pursue their dreams with determination and dedication. A future without boundaries is living life with infinite possibilities.”
Never Have I Ever star Ramona Young said, “Being part of McDonald’s APA Next Summit, meeting so many AAPI students on their academic and professional journeys, fills me with pride for our community. I hope I continue to inspire my generation to feel pride in who they are and that through events like McDonald’s APA Next Summit, they find both community and support.”
With McDonald’s continued support, students from AAPI communities are empowered to follow their dreams and contribute to a future where success has no boundaries. For those who missed the summit, the discussions are available online, and the resources provided continue to be an invaluable tool for students and educators alike.
As the McDonald’s APA Next Education Program looks forward to another year of helping students achieve their academic dreams, one thing is clear: the future is bright for AAPI students, and McDonald’s remains committed to making it even brighter.
