DC-CAPital Stars held its “A Tribute to Broadway” gala last Tuesday night at the Kennedy Center, raising $700k. It helps DC public and public charter school students have a college career. The event included an American Idol-style competition between nine DC public and public charter school students vying for college scholarships. Winners were chosen by audience members who voted on handheld devices and celebrity judges, Tony-winning “Pippin” star Patina Miller and Grammy-winning bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding. They’re pictured here with DC-CAP CEO Argelia Rodriguez, board chair Donald Graham, and some of the competitors.

Competitors Jennifer Li and Nikita Crowell flank DC-CAP board member Pinkie Dent Mayfield. Jennifer was a finalist in the competition and Nikita came in second place. Since launching 15 years ago, DC-CAP has helped 21,000 students enroll in college and has awarded over $31M in scholarships. It’s also seen 5,800 students graduate from college.