The 18th annual Disney Dreamers Academy wrapped up with a dazzling commencement ceremony at Walt Disney World Resort on March 30. The four-day educational program welcomed 100 exceptional students from across the country, providing them with mentorship, skill development, and exclusive opportunities to pursue their dreams.
Celebrity Mentors Guide Student Excellence at Walt Disney World Event
Abbott Elementary star Tyler James Williams headlined this year’s Disney Dreamers Academy as the official DREAMbassador. The actor joined fellow mentors including radio personality Rickey Smiley and actors David and Tamela Mann from Meet The Browns to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.
During his commencement speech on Sunday, Williams praised the participants for their growth and potential. “This has been such an incredible weekend—and what I’ve seen in you all is nothing short of extraordinary,” the actor told the outstanding students. “You’re all going to go out into the world and make big, incredible strides, and it’s been so cool to watch the way your paths are already starting to take shape. Look, I might not be a teacher in real life, but I do play one on TV, and if I know one thing, it’s the power of mentorship.”
Exceptional Students Earn Life-Changing Career Opportunities
Several standout students received extraordinary opportunities to further their career goals. Sydney Gilmore from Arlington, TX, and Zane Stevenson from Manvel, TX, received personal invitations from Williams to visit the set of Abbott Elementary.
Other exceptional participants earned unique experiences tailored to their interests. Alex Onwuli from Houston, Texas, will embark on an educational trip with National Geographic to Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, Tristian Williams from Pompano Beach, Florida, will experience weightlessness during the Zero-G Astronaut Experience. Charlie Arnold from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, earned a private tour of Dolby Studios in Hollywood to support his filmmaking aspirations.
Disney Dreamer of the Year Honor Recognizes Student Leadership
Colin Sproles from Little Rock, Arkansas, earned the prestigious title of Disney Dreamer of the Year. The student body president of Little Rock Central High School was selected by both his peers and judges for this top honor.
As recognition for his leadership qualities and pursuit of excellence, Sproles received impressive rewards. His prizes included a special return trip to Walt Disney World with his family courtesy of Delta Airlines. Additionally, he earned a Disney Cruise Line voyage to celebrate his achievements and commitment to his dreams.
Four-Day Immersive Program Builds Professional Skills and Confidence
Throughout the program, which ran from March 26 to March 30, students participated in various enrichment activities. The academy focused on developing practical career skills through workshops, classes, and personalized guidance.
Participants learned valuable professional tools including networking techniques and dressing for success. These skills aim to help them stand out confidently in future workplace environments. The comprehensive program provided complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations, and theme park tickets for each student and a parent or guardian.
Eighteen Years of Dream-Making Legacy Continues to Grow
The 2025 commencement ceremony marked nearly two decades of the Disney Dreamers Academy’s commitment to nurturing young talent. The program has consistently brought together business leaders, educators, and celebrity mentors to inspire students.
Each participant received a class ring during the ceremony, symbolizing their lifelong connection to the Disney Dreamers Academy community. This tangible reminder represents their ongoing commitment to pursuing their dreams with the support of the program’s extensive network of mentors and resources.
