ABOUT US
Founded by LaRhonda and Jay Dukes, the Next Stage Foundation operates at the intersection of business, creativity, and education. Their complementary expertise bridges strategy with experience, structure with culture, and vision with execution, all driven by a singular, powerful belief: students deserve more than access - they deserve preparation, ownership, and the tools needed to build lasting abundance.
Next Stage Foundation is designed to be a launchpad, not just a source of funding. It combines expanded resources, targeted education, and exposure to real-world business practices, enabling students to transform their talent into sustainable careers and their passion into long-term success.
LaRhonda grounds the Foundation’s approach to financial empowerment and entrepreneurship education with her strategic thinking, operational excellence, and deep understanding of building sustainable systems. Jay, a dedicated entertainment trailblazer, focuses on elevating the student experience on college campuses nationwide.
Next Stage Foundation’s work empowers college students to navigate entrepreneurship, arts, and entertainment with confidence, clarity, and ownership, creating pathways that lead not just to opportunity, but to abundance.
OUR PURPOSE
The Next Stage Foundation is dedicated to empowering college students by providing a comprehensive system of financial support, mentorship, and education focused on the intersection of entrepreneurship, arts, and entertainment.
We go beyond traditional philanthropy by creating intentional pipelines. These pipelines equip young adults with the real-world business knowledge essential for their specific creative and professional fields, ensuring every contribution becomes an investment in lasting success.
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that abundance is cultivated. We emphasize financial literacy, practical investing, and ownership, all while validating creativity as a powerful and sustainable career path. By integrating accessible business education with the arts and entertainment industries, we prepare students to build viable, long-term futures.
Serving primarily college students, the Foundation maintains an expansive presence to meet students where they are, reinforcing learning and career development through consistent mentorship and exposure.
HOW WE MAKE IMPACT
The Next Stage Foundation drives impact through three core pillars: Educate, Expose, and Extend.
EDUCATE
We build confidence, ownership, and long-term stability by providing students with financial literacy and entrepreneurship education.
EXPOSE
We connect students to real-world industries, career pathways, and experiences at the intersection of arts, entertainment, and business through on-campus events and college tours.
EXTEND
We ensure inspiration is matched with tangible support by investing directly in students through our annual $50,000 College Sweepstakes, scholarships, and resource-based giveaways.
BOARD MEMBERS
The Next Stage Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to advancing our mission of empowering college students through mentorship, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Their leadership, experience, and passion help ensure the Foundation continues to create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of creative leaders.
Jay Dukes
President
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LaRhonda Dukes
Treasurer
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JoAnn Brouton
Secretary
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