Synergy & Leadership Exchange, a program of the South Central Service Cooperative, hosts the annual Gathering of Champions a FREE student academic celebration with a 30+ year history in Minnesota reaching over 75,000 students!
Each year, school officials in grades K–12 and providers of academic enrichment programs offered statewide are invited to name their top students as Minnesota's Academic All-Stars. Thanks to the financial support of several partners, Synergy & Leadership Exchange hosts a free recognition event for the Academic All-Stars.
The Gathering of Champions currently is held at the Mall of America in Bloomington the first Friday in August. A series of hourly recognition programs is held throughout the day, featuring the parade of the Academic All-Stars across stage to receive certificates of achievement and congratulations from attending dignitaries. Participating students also receive commemorative memorabilia, and discount coupons for rides in Nickelodeon Universe® and purchases at participating Mall of America merchants to share with family and friends who attend.
Criteria for Selection:
Students are selected as Academic All-Stars by their schools, with the recommended selection criteria including:
- Students who are consistent top academic performers
- Students who have shown significant improvement in achievement or have overcome barriers to academic achievement
- Students who are local, regional or state champions in a Minnesota Academic League Council approved event
