For Gary-Area High School Students
Every Laureate started somewhere — and for every one of them, that somewhere was Gary.
This is why GAPCL is proud to launch the Future Laureates Initiative (FLI). For the first time ever, Gary-area students will be matched with a Laureate in their field of interest and take part in a dedicated session together ahead of the Gala. As part of the experience, each student submits a pre-recorded question for their matched Laureate to answer in person (full format details to be announced). Students will then be present at the Gala to celebrate the legacy being honored, standing alongside those whose path once looked like theirs.
FLI is open to high school juniors and seniors with a demonstrated interest in one of GAPCL's five disciplines. Its mission is to connect students directly with the achievement — and opportunity — that Gary roots can produce.
GAPCL was founded not only to preserve Gary's legacy of excellence, but to inspire the generation that will carry it forward. A name on a program, or a story in an archive, is one thing. A student sitting in the room, shaking the hand of someone who started exactly where they are, now that is the inspiration a young person carries with them a lifetime.
Sponsored Student Seats
FLI seats at the Inaugural Presentation Gala are made possible through dedicated FLI Sponsors — individuals, businesses, and organizations who underwrite student attendance as a distinct, community-focused form of partnership with the Academy.
A Standing Commitment
Alongside sponsored seats, GAPCL is committed to ensuring FLI students attend the Gala regardless of sponsorship levels reached in any given year.
FLI launches in 2027 as a pilot, starting with a focused, well-supported group of students. This allows GAPCL and its school partners to build a strong foundation — with the explicit goal of growing the program in future years, including extending FLI to middle school students as the model is proven.
Are you a junior or senior at a Gary Community School Corporation school? FLI is your chance to be in the room where Gary's legacy is honored — face to face with the people whose path once looked like yours.
Applications open in April 2027. To apply, you'll need a GPA of 2.0 or higher, an attendance rate of 80% or higher, and a genuine interest in one of GAPCL's five disciplines.
Become a FLI Sponsor
Underwrite student seats at the Inaugural Presentation Gala and put your organization's name behind Gary's next generation. Visit our Membership & Sponsorships page to learn more.
Schools & Educators
GAPCL will be working with Gary Community School Corporation to identify a program most effective in selecting FLI students. If you are an educator or administrator interested in learning more, please reach out to partners@garyapcl.org.
FLI — The Future Laureates Initiative. Honoring where they started. Inspiring where they're headed.