The KPMG Future Leaders Program, a charitable initiative to inspire and develop talented young women, is growing in its second year with the help of KPMG ambassador and golf champion Phil Mickelson. A donation from the Phil and Amy Mickelson Foundation enables KPMG to increase the Program's reach by 25 percent to award 20 college scholarships for its 2017 class. In addition, these young women will enhance their personal growth through a leadership development retreat at Stanford University, an introduction to golf, and be paired with a woman business leader from the KPMG Women's Leadership Summit for ongoing mentorship.
Launched in 2016 with Dr. Condoleezza Rice as the Program's Ambassador, the KPMG Future Leaders Program is focused on paying it forward to deserving women on the rise – like Evelyn Valencia. A freshman at Emory University and 2016 scholarship recipient, Evelyn dreams of becoming a surgeon and said: "I met other girls through the Program who, like me, had their own ideas about what they want to do and become – and it was eye-opening to see and meet women in high positions. The fact that KPMG is investing in helping girls become future leaders is very inspiring."
KPMG U.S. Chairman and CEO Lynne Doughtie said, "Empowering women to succeed and lead is a personal passion for me. We are committed to increasing the number of female leaders at KPMG and beyond, and it is important to start early and reach future generations through initiatives like the KPMG Future Leaders Program." She adds, "Phil and Amy are part of our extended family at KPMG, and their contribution will make a meaningful impact on these young women's lives."
Phil Mickelson commented: "As the father of two daughters, I'm proud to support the KPMG Future Leaders Program and its mission to propel young women towards success in their future careers. Amy and I have always believed that education is the foundation for success in life, this Program is a perfect fit for our Foundation."
The 20 scholars selected for the KPMG Future Leaders Program – Class of 2017 met the following criteria:
- Female high school senior planning to enroll in a four-year undergraduate program for the upcoming fall semester;
- Proven track record of academic excellence and leadership potential;
- Minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA;
- Interest in a business or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) academic track;
- Active in the community; and
- Financial need.
The KPMG Future Leaders Program is part of the firm's commitment to lifelong learning, which aims to support students at all grade levels and professionals throughout their careers to reach their full potential. The Program is funded by proceeds from the KPMG Women's PGA Championship and KPMG Women's Leadership Summit. The PGA of America and LPGA Tour lead the golf instruction at the annual KPMG Future Leaders Retreat, along with KPMG brand
