In this episode of Confluence Conversations, we highlight the unique partnership between Grand Center Arts Academy (GCAA) and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO)—and how it creates real-world opportunities for students across Confluence Academies.

Maureen Byrne of the SLSO joins the conversation alongside GCAA student Denim Browder and faculty member Kirk Hanser to share how mentorship, collaboration, and access to professional arts spaces transform learning beyond the classroom. From performances to behind-the-scenes experiences, students gain rare exposure to a world-class orchestra right in their own neighborhood.

Located side by side in the Grand Center Arts District, GCAA and the SLSO have built a relationship rooted in trust, shared passion for the arts, and a commitment to empowering the next generation of musicians. Together, they’re opening doors, building confidence, and helping students imagine futures in creative and professional music spaces.

In this episode of Confluence Conversations, host Dr. Lewis-Kelly sits down with Michael Woods, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Dream Builders 4 Equity (DB4E), to discuss DB4E’s partnership with Confluence Academies through the Summer Youth Academy. This eight-week program supports underserved youth ages 16–24 through paid employment, mentorship, and personal and professional development—while also offering hands-on exposure to real estate and opportunities for ownership in book publishing projects.

Joining the conversation is Confluence Academies senior Antone Wilson, who recently completed the Summer Youth Academy and shares a firsthand perspective on what the experience offered and how it helped shape his future.

In this episode of Confluence Conversations, we spotlight the growing athletics program at Confluence Academies and the role sports play in building leadership, community, and opportunity for student-athletes.

Athletic Director Angela Prebianca and host Haley Brewick discuss the fifth annual Confluence Academy Golf Tournament Fundraiser now the program’s largest annual fundraiser along with year-round sports programming that includes summer camps, fall and winter competition, and spring conditioning. From record-breaking community support and hands-on student involvement to expanded coaching staffs, new programs like wrestling and esports, and a strong pipeline from elementary through high school, this conversation highlights how athletics at Confluence Prep are about far more than competition they’re about connection, confidence, and long-term student success.