EYC 2024
Honoring the Journey To Success
Last night, the UDC Theater of the Arts buzzed excitedly as College Bound held its 33rd annual End of Year Celebration, a testament to its enduring commitment to educational excellence. The event was marked by awarding over $200,000 in scholarships to local public school students, ensuring that 100% of the 39 graduating seniors will be embarking on their college journeys this fall.
Wen-kuni Ceant, CEO and Co-Founder of Politicking, spoke with the Seniors in a private reception for seniors and their mentors and parents encouraging them to stay engaged as they head to college. She emphasized the power of their vote and creating networks that will support their dreams.
The evening commenced with an insightful video presentation of the Site Ambassadors' annual International Study Tour to Ghana. The video captured the transformative experiences of the students, highlighting the global perspective that College Bound fosters among its participants. Tatum Primus, Class of 2025, followed by reciting an original poem. The event was hosted by London Littlejohn '24 and Ethan Pair '26. Executive Director Kenneth Ward warmly welcomed attendees and emphasized the remarkable college completion rates of College Bound students. He underscored the critical need for continued financial support to sustain and expand the organization's impact, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the audience. This yearβs theme was βUNDETERRED.β
Dr. Treneisha Jones Gaston, Chair of the Board of Directors, offered greetings that echoed Ward's sentiments followed by alumni Essence Kendall who shared her journey from College Bound student to mentor and donor, illustrating the lasting influence of the program. Aria Briggs and Aaliyah Purnell-Snowden treated College Bound to a rendition of Desperation by Judith Hill underscoring the need to be undeterred.
A highlight of the evening was the Hall of Fame Award presentation to Nancy Bryant and Jerry Taylor, who have generously donated over $2,000,000 to College Bound. The award was presented by Benjamin Enwesi (UMD '25), Jackson Lewis (Bucknell '27), and Nina Enwesi (UMD '27), whose heartfelt words of gratitude reflected the profound impact of Bryant and Taylor's contributions.
Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign, was honored with the Community Leadership Award, presented by Madison McCauley, Class of 2025. Robinson's acceptance speech inspired all with her dedication to advocacy and leadership.
The event reached a pinnacle with powerful words of inspiration from Congresswoman Gwen Moore, who urged the students to embrace their future with courage and determination. A captivating dance performance by seniors Elaya Newman and Kristen Murphy followed.
The momentous evening culminated with the awarding of scholarships to each graduating senior, totaling over $200,000. Mr. Ward provided closing remarks, inviting all College Bound alumni on stage where they were joined by the Class of 2024βa symbolic gesture of unity and continuity. The celebration concluded with a reception for Honor Society members, allowing attendees to connect and reflect on the night's achievements.
College Bound's 33rd annual End of Year celebration was a resounding success, embodying the organization's mission to empower students through education and community support. The evening not only celebrated the remarkable achievements of the students but also highlighted the critical role of financial resources in sustaining such impactful work.
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