https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news daily 0.75 2020-01-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490898157642-OCXLCC0GS4C1I8MLW5NU/ambyese+news.jpg News https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2020/1/21/ambyese-announces-healthcare-symposium monthly 0.5 2022-01-11 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2019/6/13/ambyese-announces-new-dean-of-students monthly 0.5 2019-06-13 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2019/4/29/ambyese-alumni-are-student-leaders monthly 0.5 2019-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1556575304089-F6BHOOS7CUWNIHS10MNW/image1.jpeg News - AMBYESE Alumni are Student Leaders https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2019/4/17/ambyese-scientific-lab-symposium-press-release monthly 0.5 2019-04-20 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2018/3/30/congratulations-to-current-ambyese-student-victoria-gomez-small monthly 0.5 2018-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1522428859091-WX2ENHJ18SSKIEWUN70F/FB_IMG_1522363847093.jpg News - Congratulations to Current AMBYESE Student: Victoria Gomez Small https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2018/3/30/national-news-coverage-march-for-our-lives monthly 0.5 2018-03-30 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2018/3/16/florida-shooting-students-walk-out-of-schools-to-call-for-gun-control monthly 0.5 2018-03-16 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2017/12/4/congratulations-to-ambyese-alumnus-william-phillips monthly 0.5 2017-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1512423360726-IK8XT9RAHWFUCU3H4CBB/WilliamPhillips.png News - Congratulations to AMBYESE Alumnus William Phillips https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2017/8/15/congratulations-to-dr-beena-ramachandran monthly 0.5 2017-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1502833994889-SRBA0S04SGC2PI0XZWK8/image-asset.jpeg News - Congratulations to Dr. Beena Ramachandran https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1502837568706-GOWLL0VFKE1YFRRA2PZE/UConnLetter2.jpeg News - Congratulations to Dr. Beena Ramachandran https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/our-new-website monthly 0.5 2017-04-11 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2017-yes-i-can-program-highlights monthly 0.5 2017-04-11 https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese-news/2017-educational-conference-highlights monthly 0.5 2017-05-21 https://www.ambyese.org/about daily 0.75 2025-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490900797468-GHUBM4UBJQD8RP1BR3TR/ambyese-home2.jpg About https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/2d95a478-979e-420e-9508-6c93efccfd3b/image+%285%29.png About - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.ambyese.org/wall-of-fame-1 daily 0.75 2025-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579959186842-GNH4YDJET5HV8414KCR7/2S2A3799+-+Copy.jpg Wall of Fame - John H. Howell, CPA John H. Howell, CPA, is a retired partner from the multinational professional service firm of Ernst & Young. He has served on the AMBYESE Board of Directors since its inception. John believes that working with, and mentoring young people during their most impressionable years is one of the ways to make the world a better place for all. The AMBYESE mission of making a measurable educational difference in the lives of multicultural college-bound students from schools across Connecticut, and Metropolitan New York and exposing them to exciting careers that are the heart of our global economy is making a difference. John is active in promoting the ideals of AMBYESE and serves as Chairman of the Board Directors of Black Spectrum Theatre Inc., based in Queens, NY. He is the Treasurer of The United Black Men of Queens Foundation, Inc. dedicated to mentoring young men of color, and he is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579959186842-GNH4YDJET5HV8414KCR7/2S2A3799+-+Copy.jpg Wall of Fame - John H. Howell, CPA John H. Howell, CPA, is a retired partner from the multinational professional service firm of Ernst & Young. He has served on the AMBYESE Board of Directors since its inception. John believes that working with, and mentoring young people during their most impressionable years is one of the ways to make the world a better place for all. The AMBYESE mission of making a measurable educational difference in the lives of multicultural college-bound students from schools across Connecticut, and Metropolitan New York and exposing them to exciting careers that are the heart of our global economy is making a difference. John is active in promoting the ideals of AMBYESE and serves as Chairman of the Board Directors of Black Spectrum Theatre Inc., based in Queens, NY. He is the Treasurer of The United Black Men of Queens Foundation, Inc. dedicated to mentoring young men of color, and he is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1759344674376-EEJ6S3BAJZ7WKVTVO4MK/image0.jpeg Wall of Fame - Rachana Somaskandan Rachana Somaskandan is a recent graduate of Northeastern University with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Materials Science and Engineering. Upon being awarded her Chemical Engineering undergraduate degree, Rachana joined DuPont as a R&D Associate. During her time at Northeastern, she took part in academic and industry research focused on renewable energy and climate technologies, including batteries, hydrogen production, and mining waste remediation. She was also an active member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers chapter and volunteered regularly through Alpha Phi Omega. Rachana joined the AMBYESE Y.E.S. I Can Program in 2019 prior to her junior year at Stamford High School, which helped her improve her standardized testing skills and obtain a University National Merit Scholarship. She also attended the ASM Materials Camp and explored various industries through AMBYESE, which inspired her to pursue her major and current career path as a R&D associate in semiconductor material development. Rachana is sincerely grateful for the opportunities and help AMBYESE has offered her since joining, and looks forward to supporting the program further in the future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1763653855759-LYMRW39ACJJIRYK514C5/0.jpg Wall of Fame - Jenna Coladarci, MS, CCC-SLP Jenna Coladarci is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in Connecticut. She graduated summa cum laude from Suffolk University in Boston, MA, earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and completing the Honors College program. She later earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from New York Medical College in Valhalla, NY. After graduation, she completed a nine-month clinical fellowship and successfully passed her licensure exam. In her work, Jenna assesses and treats a wide range of communication and swallowing needs, including speech sound and phonological disorders, fluency disorders, functional communication challenges, expressive and receptive language difficulties, swallowing and feeding concerns, and implementing the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Jenna was delighted to be a part of the AMBYESE/YES I Can program in high school and to receive one of the University of Notre Dame’s Pre-College Summer Scholars scholarships in 2018, which is earmarked for AMBYESE’s best and brightest students. She’s now an engaged member of the AMBYESE STEM Undergraduate Degree Selection Task Force. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1761930163979-FMFGJH5CWRYSGBHZYI0M/image-asset.png Wall of Fame - Aryan Donikena I am a senior at Duke University majoring in Biology and Chemistry on the pre-med track. As an aspiring physician, I’m deeply interested in the intersection of health policy and clinical care —particularly how both affect patients and healthcare providers. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling, playing tennis, and spending time with friends and family. My journey with AMBYESE / Y.E.S., I Can began in 2019 while I was a student at Westhill High School. The incredible STEM exposure and hands-on experiences I received through those programs built a strong foundation for my academic success and career path. I’m truly grateful and honored to now serve as a member of the AMBYESE STEM Undergraduate Degree Selection Task Force, contributing to the same organization that helped shape my future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1709567579196-8XK4VDOR8II7JSBX61G7/Barry_headshot.jpg Wall of Fame - Barry Wright I’m Barry Wright, a 1992 alum of AMBYESE’s programs. I participated in AMBYESE’s free of charge programs from my freshman to senior years of high school. I received my Bachelors degree from the College of William & Mary, and my MBA degree from the George Washington University. As one of the recipients of a higher educational institution scholarship, I wish to congratulate AMBYESE for its 40 years of successfully transitioning our multicultural youth from high school to college. The experience and exposure I received at AMBYESE helped me become the successful real estate broker I am today. At Reliant Realty Advisors, based in Washington, DC. I lead the tenant representation group helping associations, corporations, educational groups, retailers, municipalities and government contractors lease or purchase their commercial space. Oh, how time flies — I’m thrilled that my son Maxwell is enrolled in AMBYESE’s Summer of ‘24 YES, I Can Program. Maxwell’s enrollment marks the inauguration of AMBYESE’s first “second-generation program enrollee.” It speaks volumes of AMBYESE’s acclaimed 40 year-old history! Maxwell intends on focusing on STEM as he is particularly interested in math, chemistry, and computer engineering. I’m proud and honored that my son will benefit by participating in this highly renowned, pre-college program. I’m equally proud and honored that he’ll reap the same benefits that laid the foundation for my success! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1637262139792-2LNXA09M6VI3BB5A0Q2E/Jayme.jpeg Wall of Fame - Jayme Beckham Ed.D. Jayme Beckham is the Principal at JM Wright Technical High School in Stamford, CT. She attended Western CT State University and earned an undergraduate degree in Secondary Education with a specialization in English Language Arts in 2005. After that, she continued at WCSU to earn her master’s degree in Instructional Technology in 2008. She earned her 092/6thYear Administrator’s degree from Sacred Heart University in 2011. In 2014, Jayme left her teaching career to become an administrator with the CT Technical Education and Career System (CTECS). In 2020, Jayme earned her Doctoral degree in General Education from Northcentral University. Jayme has been involved with the AMBYESE organization since 2008 starting as the YES I Can program’s English Language Arts SAT prep instructor. Over the years, her role in AMYESE evolved to include being a business and educational consultant and the board secretary. Jayme lives in Sandy Hook, CT. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1708438004224-NJWWXFITUIEWN63G899W/image.jpg Wall of Fame - Gabrielle Yamoah Ambyese has been a wonderful organization to explore careers and academic pathways throughout my time in high school. Ambyese provided exposure to many of the world’s largest businesses and their employees. I found this to be helpful to learn from current executives about their career choices and pursuit of higher education. The SAT/ACT prep was also helpful preparing for taking standardized tests. Ambyese included discussions with prior participants and college students to help me learn about strategies in taking the test and the importance of doing well. Speaking and learning from other participants of Ambyese graduates was inspiring and helped me to align my academic and collegiate goals. My acceptance into Carnegie Mellon is a direct result of my participation in the program. Immaculate High School Class of 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1708708415381-5IKK8I4ALKMU38GMNVOV/PXL_20230131_223105066.MP%7E2+%281%29.jpg Wall of Fame - Chris Shafer My name is Chris Shafer. I was a student in the YES, I Can program between 2003 and 2006. Since then, I have earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Economics from Lafayette College and am currently pursuing accreditation with the Casualty Actuarial Society. My time being a student within the AMBYESE/YES, I Can programs provided invaluable stepping stones for me to reach higher education and lay the groundwork for me to reach my career as an actuary. The summers I spent attending the YES, I Can sessions had two components, both equally as important to the success of the program. The first component, and the bulk of the program time-wise, was spent attending SAT prep classes. Normally, this is the last thing a high school student would want to do for three weeks in August, but it was invaluable in helping me achieve the scores necessary to attend Lafayette College. The second component is the field trips. These trips were designed to expose us to various industries to give an idea of the breadth of options available to us. The field trips impressed upon me the value of working hard throughout high school and college to ensure that I would be able to pursue my interests. My story with YES, I Can does not end there. After graduating high school, I was asked by Mr. Johnson to return as an instructor for the Math portion of the SAT prep class. After teaching the prep class, I went on to tutor calculus throughout college. Teaching the SAT prep gave me practice breaking down complex topics in simple ways. In my career, this is a valuable skill - numbers would be meaningless without someone to put context around them in a digestible manner. I’ll never forget my time with AMYESE/YES, I Can and all the life lessons gained. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1709575409877-BTONFHKYMDK8IWZ7DE1R/Allan.jpg Wall of Fame - Allan Arthur Quade Allan A. Quade is a 3L Day Student at the University of Connecticut School of Law in Hartford, CT. He is the current Assistant Managing Editor of the top-rated Connecticut Insurance Law Journal as well as the President of UConn’s Native American Law Student’s Association Chapter. Allan graduated a semester early from the University of Connecticut in 2020 with an Individualized Major in Crime Law and Justice, as well as a Second major in Psychological Sciences and a minor in Sociology. While at UConn, he was the president of UConn’s Psi Chi Chapter, the national Psychology Honors Society, as well as the Vice President of the UConn Moot Court Competition Team. Through the YES I Can Program and AMBYESE from 2013-2017, Allan had the opportunity to visit big industries such as PRAXAIR and PEPSICO at an early age, while also learning important test taking and writing skills. He also had the privilege to attend both the ASM Materials Camp and Notre Dame Summer Scholars Law Track on full scholarships which nurtured not only his desire for leadership roles, but also his future career track. As an AMBYESE Alumni Association Student Ambassador, Allan continues to give back to the AMBYESE family by volunteering his time to donation drives such as the Popcorn Fundraiser. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1759344840218-K2ODG0VB9DQUHFE3ZZY6/Bailey.Headshot.jpg Wall of Fame - Bailey Alexandra Brown Ph.D. Bailey Brown completed her PhD in Sociology at Columbia University where she previously earned a M. Phil. and M.A and was named Paul F. Lazarsfeld Fellow and a Ford Foundation Fellow. Bailey holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with minors in urban education and Africana studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Bailey is the author of Kindergarten Panic: Parental Anxiety and School Choice Inequality. Formerly a Princeton University Postdoctoral Fellow, Brown is currently an Assistant Professor of Sociology in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Spelman College. Bailey researches and teaches on urban sociology, race and ethnicity, and education. As a former AMBYESE student, Bailey continues to volunteer for the organization. Bailey would like to extend her sincerest gratitude to AMBYESE for the college preparation and career advice she received during her time as an AMBYESE student. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1680702672982-7CU0GNZKBV7HGFHJXOBF/Mohamed+Badaoui+Najjar.png Wall of Fame - Mohamed Badaoui Najjar Ph.D. Mohamed is the Senior Director of the Strategy & Portfolio Sector of Food & Beverage at PepsiCo. He partners with all international teams across food and beverage to set up the future R&D strategy as well as build the right people and program capabilities for the future. Mohamed has 12 years of global industry experience in leading and shaping new platforms and strategies from ideation to launch. He is passionate about new innovation, trends, and understanding different generational consumer behaviors. Mohamed believes that motivated, engaged, and empowered people drive exceptional results. He is passionate about building high-performing teams and mentoring high-potential talent. Mohamed received his BS/MS from the American University of Beirut in Lebanon and his doctorate in food science from Rutgers University. He enjoys playing sports, exercise and fitness, the outdoors as well as experiencing new food & beverage innovation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1699377496609-ZFYO7V82DPIBI0URC8XW/Image+%283%29.png Wall of Fame - Catalino Espino As the Associate Program Director and Compliance Program Manager, University of Notre Dame, Catalino is responsible for ensuring that all practices within pre-college are compliant so that student experiences are not only fruitful, but safe! Through a strange set of circumstances—and happy coincidences—he had the unique experience to manage the COVID-19 testing operations for the Orlando Magic, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Team USA Soccer to name a few. He is committed to bringing his experiences in managing compliance expectations to facilitate student growth and discernment as they prepare for new chapters in college. Catalino received his MTS from Boston College and his B.A. in Neuroscience and Behavior from The University of Notre Dame. When not at the office, Catalino enjoys traversing the streets of Indiana on his bike or playing in friendly games of ultimate frisbee. He is also a guitar and tuba enthusiast. When the Indiana weather does not permit, he loves to play video games. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579961527799-3NF8MYFX5UNOHO8ASZH5/IMG_1137.jpg Wall of Fame - Spiro Milas Spiro Milas was born in Yonkers, New York. He has a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from the College of New Rochelle. He has been a Guidance Counselor at Westhill High School since 2006 and has been a proud liaison between Westhill High School and AMBYESE since 2008. "I decided to participate in Ambyese's Steering Committee because I have come across very few programs in my career which solely desire to provide education and educational experiences to students and not seek anything from them in return. Ambyese is a wonderful organization." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1637262039482-MFVBJUXEVPKKLYGAGOLJ/Jaleesa+Headshot.JPG Wall of Fame - Jaleesa Harrigan U.S. Navy Lieutenant Jaleesa T. Harrigan is a devoted, career-driven and outgoing young professional who has made a name for herself in the field of engineering. She is a native of Danbury, CT and a nuclear-trained Surface Warfare Officer (SWO-N) in the United States Navy. Jaleesa is a graduate of Bethel High School and participated in the Y.E.S I Can summer program for three consecutive years. She serves as a member of the fundraising team and was Mistress of Ceremony for the virtual 38th AMBYESE Conference held on November 13, 2021. She a proud alumna of AMBYESE and continues to contribute to the programs agenda. She is a Howard University Alumna with a Bachelor’s of Science in Applied Mathematics and a minor in Computer Science. While pursuing her degree, she was an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Bison Cheerleading, Math Club and Pi Mu Epsilon Math Honor Society. Jaleesa earned her commission through the George Washington University Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps. She served aboard USS BUNKER HILL (CG-52), developing proficiency in leading teams through various navigation, combat systems, and tactical surface warfare scenarios. Jaleesa successfully matriculated the Navy’s post-graduate nuclear propulsion training pipeline, which focused on theory, design, operation and maintenance of naval nuclear propulsion plants. Ms. Harrigan served aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCLON (CVN-72) as the production manager for the carrier’s reactor propulsion systems and led watch teams through her role as a Propulsion Plant Watch Officer. She provided ongoing expertise in unit-level nuclear energy, maintenance, repairs, planning, crew supervision, quality assurance and compliance. As a Department of Energy and Department of Defense qualified supervisor of Navy Nuclear Propulsion systems, she enforced effective reactor management, radiological controls, and environmental safety while fulfilling the role of a principal assistant to the ship’s Reactor Officer. In February 2020, Jaleesa received the “Most Promising Engineer in Government” Award at the 2020 Black Engineer of the Year STEM Conference. Stationed in Millington, TN as a Nuclear Programs Manager, she prepares potential engineers for the Navy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1760710079894-ZIUJQ25T7X1I7LKEU4EN/Viktoria+Wulff-Andersen%27s+Headshot.JPG Wall of Fame - Viktoria Wulff-Andersen Hailing from Danbury, Connecticut, Viktoria Wulff-Andersen is a global compliance analyst at Goldman Sachs, where she's exploring the regulatory space and field of corporate law. She graduated from Duke University, having majored in political science, minored in sociology, and attained a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics certificate. She is also a prospective J.D. candidate and an aspiring lawyer with a marked passion for reforming the current carceral system in the United States. At Duke, Viktoria was a student leader, serving as the Associate Vice President for Equity and Outreach in Duke Student Government, the treasurer of the Duke International Relations Association, the opinion editor of Duke's independent newspaper The Chronicle, and more. She served as the co-president of the Duke Justice Project—a large student organization dedicated to fighting mass incarceration and recidivism in the United States through advocacy, service, education, and collaboration with organizations like OurJourney, Duke Law's Wilson Center for Science and Justice, and Legal Aid of North Carolina. Outside of Duke, Viktoria is a fond alumna of AMBYESE's Y.E.S. I Can Program. Viktoria is grateful for all of the help she has gotten from AMBYESE and its leaders. Without their support, she would not be where she is today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1624563252299-XRNJ374DAEAED1LHCRTA/Maame%2BEfua%2BForson.jpg Wall of Fame - Maame Efua Forson My name is Maame Efua Forson, and I go to Mount Vernon Steam Academy. I will be attending Harvard University in the fall to study Neuroscience with a concentration in African and African American Studies. I hope to become an OB-GYN in the future, working in an underprivileged community. My time in AMBYESE/YES I CAN gave me the tools I needed to get to where I am in my educational journey, because they were resources readily available at the time I needed them the most. Through AMBYESE, I got a scholarship to a Notre Dame summer program, where I worked with professors on the Cancer/Life Sciences track, learning about the reasons behind the disease and how far along research is. Then, I was part of a 3-week program learning about how to take the SAT and prepare for college applications. With the help of that teacher, I constructed my extensive college and scholarship list and started editing my college essays. With AMBYESE's help, I increased my SAT score by 130 points and got into 25/39 of my colleges. All the programs and help available made my college process much smoother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1717171312045-IR7LC3PX42H9TYJTCDHH/IMG_8026.jpeg Wall of Fame - Cecelia Lily Coleman Cecelia Lily Coleman is a rising senior at Smith College majoring in Biochemistry with a concentration in Museum Studies. She has just returned from a semester abroad in Geneva, Switzerland, where she studied at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies and interned with the Energy team at the International Institute for Sustainable Development. At Smith, Cecelia is a chemistry tutor and lab teaching assistant. She also swims, coaches, and choreographs for Smith’s Sirens Synchronized Swimming club and will be its co-president starting next fall. This past academic year, she was co-president of Smith’s Global Medical Brigades (GMB@Smith) chapter and worked to raise over forty thousand dollars for a healthcare clinic pop-up in Honduras during January 2024. She will continue as a member of GMB@Smith’s executive board next year. Cecelia joined AMBYESE's Y.E.S. I Can program the summer before her sophomore year of high school. Through the program, she fine tuned her standardized testing skills and received several amazing opportunities, including attending the ASM Materials Camp and the Summer Scholars program at University of Notre-Dame virtually in the summer of 2020. She looks back at her time with AMBYESE fondly and her family continues to support the program. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579962466178-YJHFHVA59DGNKDN7W6KB/cid_8A1F4E71-4974-461B-B717-2978AEA45636.jpg Wall of Fame - Crystal March Brinkley M.D. Crystal March Brinkley grew up in Simsbury, CT and enjoyed attending the yearly AMBYESE conferences since the young age of 12 since her mother, Gail March Williams, served as a role model each year. Her biggest highlight of all was meeting Les Brown who has been a strong motivational influence on her throughout her life. Crystal went on to graduate from Northwestern University and attend the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. While in school, she became an active member of the AMBYESE Alumni Association and later became a member of AMBYESE’s Board of Directors. After becoming an MD, focusing on psychiatry, she started working on her Masters in Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh while simultaneously completing a research fellowship exploring the impact of religion on mental health. Following that season of her life, Crystal decided to explore more holistic health practices both as a career and as a person searching for greater healing for chronic health issues. After getting married and moving to the West Coast, Crystal immersed herself in the community mental health network of the California Bay Area. She became a certified mental health peer specialist, an awarded activist within local organizations, a teacher & mentor for consumers training for their certification, and a Wellness Recovery Action Plan facilitator. Crystal and her family recently relocated to the Austin area where she works as a yoga teacher & full-time mom who loves the Lord and enjoys working alongside her husband, Greg Brinkley, within her new church community. She is very honored to receive this position as the Dean of the Y.E.S. I Can Institution. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579962583807-4FU9J9KAPGX4A1UOZP1A/Screen+Shot+2020-01-25+at+9.29.30+AM.png Wall of Fame - Gail March-Williams Gail Williams is a retired aerospace executive with a very rewarding and interesting 39-year professional career (the payoff of heavy demands & stress and endless praying). She is the fifth of 13 children. She holds degrees in Physics/Mathematics (B.S. cum laude); Electrical Engineering (B.S. and M.S.) and Master of Business Administration (focus in international business). She is an accomplished, recognized and highly regarded businesswoman. As one of the initial members of the AMBYESE family, I fully support and applaud the mission of AMBYESE. It was an opportunity and blessing to serve in any capacity that would foster the mission. AMBYESE afforded executives and professionals, as I, the opportunity to help shape the platform of students’ growth in business endeavors and in STEM careers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579961741539-EW2N2IHTC7T4LWGLILN3/claudia.jpg Wall of Fame - Claudia S. Lee Claudia S. Lee, BA, MS, (Special Education) MS, (Administration) plus 30 graduate credits is a retired Elementary School Teacher from the City School District of New Rochelle, NY (34 years) and Westchester Community College (31 years) in 2000. Ms. Lee served the AMBYESE Board of Directors from its inception until her retirement from education. She participated as a liaison for the Yonkers Secondary Public Schools exposing numerous of students to all the programs offered by AMBYESE. In addition, she coordinated yearly banquet events for the sponsors of the program. She continues to consult land mentor young multicultural college bound students which is the mission of AAMBYESE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579963221960-IWO3015OACZSSEH1F21M/PastedGraphic-1.jpg Wall of Fame - Drew Aliyah Valentine My name is Drew Aliyah Valentine and I’m a recent graduate of Cornell University. During my time as a student at Immaculate High School, I was given the opportunity to become part of the AMBYESE family. Through this program, I was given access to both skills and experiences. For example, I was able to spend one of my high school summers at Notre Dame studying science with a group of likeminded scholars. I am currently working for Latham & Watkins LLP. Additionally, I am constantly finding new ways to give back to my community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579963399095-5UOUL0I7Y52JU04F9RRS/20191230_210112.jpg Wall of Fame - Hector M. Reyes-Perez My name is Hector M. Reyes-Perez. Since I was a freshman at Warren Harding High school, I have been part of the AMBYESE family. They have helped me grow and achieve my goals. I graduated from Fairfield University with a Finance Degree and currently working in creating, developing, and distributing wine brands, which include our biggest brand, Luscious Vines. Additionally, I'm also a mentor of the Bridgeport FIRST Robotic team 3634 "Spark City". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579963485346-WX2OVUP6456M2X2R29MT/Badge+Photo.jpg Wall of Fame - Shalini Shial Shalini Shial is an Assistant Civil Engineer at Burns & McDonnell in Wallingford, CT. She graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering. While at UConn she was the President of the American Society of Civil Engineers as well as a dancer on Surya, UConn’s Premier Bollywood-Fusion Dance Team. Shalini had the privilege of attending the AMBYESE YES, I Can program from 2013-2017 and was able to attend both the ASM Materials Program and Notre Dame Summer Scholars on full scholarship through partnerships with AMBYESE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1717171177237-9USBV09M7GUEYDOEKBC6/667B03FB-76C2-417C-B6A9-C75E83C456B4.jpeg Wall of Fame - Michelle Curtis Michelle Curtis participated in the YES I Can Program from 2015-2017 while she was a student at Immaculate High School. Michelle found the program invaluable in helping her improve her SAT score and expose her to different careers. The field trip portion of the program allowed her to visit Deloitte in 2017, ultimately being the deciding factor in her majoring in accounting. Through AMBYESE, she also had the opportunity to attend the Notre Dame Summer Scholars program and the Missouri ASM Materials Camp. Michelle attended the University of Connecticut where she received a Bachelors of Science in Accounting in 2022. She completed four summer internships with Deloitte and is currently an Audit Senior at the firm. Outside of the day-to-day work, she is also involved with DEI initiatives at the firm. Michelle is currently pursuing her CPA and will be receiving her license in 2024. She is also a mentor for AMBYESE students. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1583771419956-4CD8TU8MAHCWUJZZUV05/image.png Wall of Fame - Lynn Loya Lynn Loya is a counselor and educator with 20+ years of experience on both the collegiate and secondary school levels. Most recently, Lynn was the Director of School Counseling at Immaculate High School (Danbury, CT) for 13 years until her retirement in June, 2017. During her tenure at Immaculate, Lynn was the liaison between Immaculate and the Ambyese Program. “It was a great pleasure and privilege to work with Wendell Johnson and the Ambyese Program. All of our Immaculate students who participated, benefited greatly from the tremendous career and professional support and guidance the program offered and from the dedicated and inspiring leadership of Mr. Johnson. All of these students have gone on to significant professional and personal achievements and certainly the Ambyese Program was instrumental in fostering their success. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1627570253009-942HWRTQDU9IWVEAL4V8/IMG_4889.jpg Wall of Fame - Lorena Curtis My name is Lorena Curtis and I participated in the YES, I Can program the summers of 2014 and 2015. While a member of the program, I was also fortunate to be a recipient of the University of Notre Dame Summer Scholars scholarship in 2014. I graduated from Immaculate High School in 2016 and went on to attend Boston College, where I graduated with my BA in Applied Psychology and Human Development in 2020 and my Masters in Clinical Social Work in 2021. My goal is to work as a licensed social worker to support youth in achieving their educational and socioemotional goals. Starting the summer of 2020, I became a YES, I Can instructor and currently teach the College Transition Program portion of the curriculum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1627570379050-MABZ3ZLKSGOSB0W2DY33/Ivans+Esperance+.JPG Wall of Fame - Ivans Esperance My name is Ivans Esperance. I participated in the AMBYESE program in the Summer of 2015. As a rising senior, it was crucial for me to take effective steps towards planning for the college process. AMBYESE equipped me with the tools and confidence necessary to successfully undergo the college process. From SAT/ACT practice tests to college essay practice exams, this program ultimately prepared me for success. As of right now, I am a current freshman enrolled at St. John's University. In the year 2020, I will graduate with a Bachelors of Science in Business Management. I can honestly say that without the help of AMBYESE, I would not be so confident in choosing my major or focusing on my academic and career goals. With that said, this program required me to make a commitment to excellence, and the benefits that I am reaping from this commitment have been phenomenal.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1583725828594-KYV2CE01ZEU1X30VBQ6Q/Akibo+Watson.jpg Wall of Fame - Akibo Watson Graduating from Woodlands High School in Greenburgh, NY, Akibo was a member of the AMBYESE Program from early on. Achieving an overall average GPA of 93, he attended the Notre Dame Psychology Summer Program in the summer of 2014. That same summer, he traveled to Las Vegas to compete in the NAACP’s national biology competition, winning a silver medal for his research in neuroscience. In 2015 Akibo graduated, and after being accepted into multiple colleges, and ultimately decided to attend SUNY Binghamton University, where he participated in their pilot selective freshman research initiative where he continued his neuroscience research. During his sophomore year he switched majors to economics, rising to the presidency of the Binghamton University chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants. Akibo graduated a semester early to take on a business development management role at Microsoft’s largest partner, SoftwareONE, and has recently changed jobs to go back to the financial services industry as an executive recruiter at the Madison Davis Group. He has just been accepted in the Columbia University Data analytics program starting this May, where he will be partnering with industry leaders to learn how to leverage data to solve problems and uncover opportunities within the financial services industry. He continues to be very actively involved in all of AMBYESE/Y.E.S., I Can initiatives. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1589770413473-2AUXV94T5ACLF7XH0XSF/DSC_3873.jpg Wall of Fame - Leslie Matos Leslie Matos holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Administration from Boston University. She started her career at the iconic Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in NYC where she spent five years and earned two Circle of Excellence awards for her work as a Senior Event Manager. Leslie is the founder and owner of Birth by Faith, an organization that provides labor coaching services online and in-person for women striving to overcome fear of childbirth. Leslie's mission is to empower women to have peace, love, and joy as they start/grow their families. Leslie participated in AMBYESE's Yes I Can program in the summer of 2008, prior to her senior year at Wooster School, which greatly helped to increase her SAT score. She is grateful to AMBYESE for depicting success in different ways, from business management to academic excellence, as well as for being a place where she built lifelong friendships. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1579961265859-KKZ16SQC7W1I7LMMKZ4G/Wills%2Bheadshot.jpg Wall of Fame - William Phillips My name is William Phillips. I am a class of 2016 graduate from the AMBYESE YES I CAN Program, a class of 2017 graduate from Mount Vernon High School and I am currently a junior studying Computer Science at the University at Buffalo. Computer Science and engineering has always been a passion of mine and although I have gained a great deal of knowledge and experience throughout my coursework, outside the classroom is where I have been able to utilize this growing skillset to its full extent. At my university I have worked on an ongoing extensive research project targeted to assist patients diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease to be able to communicate utilizing Alternative & Augmentative Communication devices. The particular device we’re utilizing is Brain Computer Interface, a device that reads and records brainwave activity and the objective is to be able to transcribe a user’s thoughts into communicative text. During the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to intern at Ford Motor Company as a Product Development Intern. I was tasked to confirm whether or not it is possible for smart watches to communicate to motor vehicles via Bluetooth Low Energy signals and execute commands. As productive as my college experience has been so far, all things stem from humble beginnings. If it wasn’t from my experience as a YES I CAN student, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Prior to my participation to the program, I had both low SAT and ACT scores, I wasn’t aware of what LinkedIn is and how it could be leveraged to network with professionals, as well as understand how to thoroughly research and select universities to apply to. The YES I CAN program allowed me to grow as in aspects that I would have never considered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1624563567067-VP8P0VFXQFZNQLQUIDD6/LinkedIn%2BPhoto%2BOctober%2B22%2B2018%2B-%2B2019%2B%25281%2529.jpg Wall of Fame - Ariel M. Vogel Ariel M. Vogel, MA Teaching, BA English is an Honorably discharged U.S. Army veteran. Following active duty Army, Ariel taught English and Hebrew, produced a Military Radar conference, and worked as university Territory Admissions Advisor. In 2019, Ariel conducted research and statistical analysis to determine the demand for outsourced IT and Cyber support services. This resulted in launching one of the United States’ first programs that trains, certifies, rates and performs job placement for new computer networking, and cybersecurity teleworkers from rural U.S. In 2019, Ariel started work as a U.S. Census Bureau Field Supervisor, and in 2020 was promoted to Census Field Manager. Ariel is most proud of having begun a weekly Friday night Jewish prayer service while deployed to Mosul, Iraq (2007 – 2009) and credited with bringing a Rabbi to Mosul to lead services in wartime. Ariel believes every person learns through classroom, local, national and global engagement. In addition to standard disciplines, teachers should facilitate students’ embrace of empathy, aspiring, intellectualism, an appreciation for the Arts, spiritual balance, social justice, regular exercise. Ariel is proud to lend his expertise as an English teaching mentor for AMBYESE’s college-bound students who are in need of his services, for he strongly feels that AMBYESE is an essential part of the firm foundation that will keep the United States viable among countries, and help Americans continually thrive, united, in every generation, as We The People persist and reach for the gleaming “City on a Hill”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1763654175241-4QTLO8YWBPBEXJFIIDN5/unknown.jpg Wall of Fame - Christopher Soares, DDS Dr. Soares is a former highly engaged Immaculate, High School participant and an active member of the AMBYESE Alumni Association and holds both undergraduate STEM-related degree and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from UCONN. With nearly a decade of experience practicing state-of-the-art dentistry both domestically and abroad, Dr. Soares is Chair of the AMBYESE STEM Undergraduate Degree Selection Task Force. https://www.ambyese.org/yes-i-can-program daily 0.75 2025-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490901502156-PJ2R4AOVACVJCSV68HDK/am.jpg YES I Can Program https://www.ambyese.org/contact-us daily 0.75 2021-11-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490901177336-KYPN9WED0WECBT8O7TA0/contact.jpg Contact https://www.ambyese.org/annual-educational-conference daily 0.75 2023-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490822472406-NLLPFL7TQMV5UUJFEAC0/ambyese1.jpg Annual Educational Conference https://www.ambyese.org/get-involved-with-ambyese daily 0.75 2024-02-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490896389438-DI2U2S8IA5AWPFN32HA7/1.jpg Get Involved https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/21c2a382-8739-412a-b426-faa530e24d7d/Screenshot_20220621-101545.png Get Involved - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.ambyese.org/resources daily 0.75 2026-02-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491855442868-JGA9B6B8ANOT21GK4MFN/iStock-497004931.jpg Resources https://www.ambyese.org/ambyese daily 1.0 2025-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491944231697-GFXFPOX0UQW9YV4GIE5J/ambyese.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/718a26d6-663e-4006-8a6e-ce59904e53d4/image+%285%29.png Home - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490903415930-3XBNNFKL4XKP7VQWO8CX/image-asset.jpeg Home - ANNUAL EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490903430705-CDGXMIQS0WGXYHBNHOVR/ambyese-program.jpg Home - YES I CAN PROGRAM https://www.ambyese.org/our-ambyese-students daily 0.75 2021-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490818042226-4834YIE5Q9AE6MNXAIYF/yes+i+can.jpg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1553521176442-LXZS0V14BZ9XUVIDHE8D/IMG_1267.JPG Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491922933972-Z9A8RR6QFQD3SVB3GMR8/Lorena+Curtis.jpg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491922838302-JVIAOJ942VUKQGPH2G2U/Pablo+Idrovo.jpg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1492535379561-5MDQF3Z8MYOL520FXQ38/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1496796390232-2HC5G8UMGY66GRJFUURI/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1496796483600-XIHL7AN8UN2X4OQ1RQI4/image-asset.png Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1496796576770-F0KS1QOGICZ4OFP90UYV/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1498193616361-4MRRPAAA1RSLD55CTNXM/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1497239406767-WQH6HFNRDJEKJVHRGTP4/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1497590424926-SQ2NR4UFEPV8IDN22B2C/image-asset.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1504029146768-4EAM1DUWJXDNNG2H758C/cruise+photo.jpg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1513796733614-7VD3FBNG1RY9VLG6NUWC/CharlyA.jpeg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1539894982661-MOOOIOYA8RZO6QFF2SOQ/Drew.picture.jpg Our Students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1548426086773-6N4EX6X14VHEMT5ITTVT/harrigan.jpg Our Students https://www.ambyese.org/about-ambyese-programs daily 0.75 2024-05-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490901252895-S3L7QZJPWNUR8KET1FXA/ambyese-contact.jpg About Our Programs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/8a432e49-3303-428c-818d-7bb201e9a0de/ambyese+bowdoin.png About Our Programs - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/46736d83-2ae8-4dde-a7c8-773ec9e31503/ambyese+linde.png About Our Programs - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.ambyese.org/credit daily 0.75 2017-04-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491925232114-Z5UK3FZEO4KS2V6T68V9/image-asset.jpeg In Remembrance The late Beverly Johnson, at right, presenting an award to student Drew Valentine, with husband and AMBYESE co-founder Wendell Johnson. https://www.ambyese.org/testimonials daily 0.75 2017-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1491927801536-AL8CLBFHC23F0F44ZEOO/iStock-4991698971.jpg Testimonials https://www.ambyese.org/read-me daily 0.75 2017-04-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5310cef7e4b08602cbfa36bf/1412689652885-P9TPK298WCTZU748L0SG/Lifestyle03.jpg Read Me https://www.ambyese.org/title daily 0.75 2017-08-31 https://www.ambyese.org/wall-of-fame daily 0.75 2020-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1490900797468-GHUBM4UBJQD8RP1BR3TR/ambyese-home2.jpg Wall of Fame https://www.ambyese.org/current-yes-i-can-students daily 0.75 2020-07-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1593538268933-HWJAJI0YC0L2UAAH4ZRB/Cecelia+Coleman.jpeg Current YES I Can Students Cecelia Coleman How can young people best prepare if there's possible return of COVID-19? “I think at this time it’s important to assume that COVID-19 is not over and that young people should expect its return. They can prepare themselves by familiarizing themselves with the online programs that they will be expected to use if school should continue teaching at a distance. During this pandemic, our technology and ability to connect with one another without meeting in person is our greatest resource, so young people must utilize that and become comfortable with the online learning style.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1593538303349-V3VO8MEME617WRKJIYBQ/Lynn+Sanchez.jpeg Current YES I Can Students Lynn Sanchez What are some good examples of community service projects teens can volunteer for? Some community service projects teens can volunteer for are any local projects in their school or town such as food drives, donating books, and clothes. During these times most places are closed or will not let you go into their buildings so some community service opportunities are writing cards to elderly homes and donating books to local libraries. These are both opportunities that I am doing right now to help my community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1593702677051-5G21K9RHI5FH90OGE01C/ViktoriaWAHeadshot.jpg Current YES I Can Students Viktoria Wulff-Andersen In your opinion, what can be done to promote more diversity and inclusion in your school and town/ city? I live in one of the most diverse small cities in America. In fact, Danbury, Connecticut - where I currently reside - is ranked fourth as one of the most diverse small cities in America according to a 2019 Patch report. However, that's not to say that our diversity means equity across all identities. Diversity in Danbury means that there are economic divides, racial inequities and targeting, LGBT+ harassment and bullying, and more. While strides are being made to resolve these issues and close all gaps, more must be down. I believe the problem starts with our education system. We aren't teaching children early enough about race, disabilities, sexual identities, and more, which can often result in harmful ignorance later on. The more we educate our youth about the inequities in our city, the more likely they'll be motivated to be part of the movement that seeks to resolve those issues in Danbury. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1594668116625-O17QS4A8Q2HB6KPJMQUR/image0.jpg Current YES I Can Students Anna Flaherty What motivates and / or inspires you to strive for academic excellence? My family is the main reason I am motivated to strive for academic excellence. My entire life I was brought up to appreciate hard work and to always be proud of my work. It’s so inspiring to see the people around you work hard and see the fruits of their labor. By achieving academic excellence I can feel good, but also have a good career to use my knowledge to help others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595271040060-NKA8KDS1AOSOIUIZNP91/IMG_5597.jpg Current YES I Can Students Gabrielle Yamoah In your opinion, what can be done to promote more diversity and inclusion in your school and town/ city? Something that can help promote diversity and inclusion in my town is a teen center or some type of area where teens can go and meet new people. In this teen center there would be activities and fun things to do, this helps because kids will be having too much fun to think about the skin colors that are around them. Skin color doesn’t define who a person is because at the end of the day we bleed the same blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595270981306-DHAVMF3XTYCC52IKXMO6/Screenshot_20200711-125842_Photos.jpg Current YES I Can Students Maame Efua Forson What motivates and / or inspires you to strive for academic excellence? The drive to succeed and make my parents proud is my number one reason for striving for academic excellence. As immigrants from Ghana who attempted to restart their lives in a country that didn't accept them, they've shown me what it means to be determined and not allow anything to be an obstacle. I work hard not only to show them their efforts weren't in vain, but also to prove to myself that I have what it takes to fulfill my potential. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1594740448726-6TYNSG7FKU9FN1SX4ZX4/20200714_084308.jpg Current YES I Can Students Indya Taylor What motivates and / or inspires you to strive for academic excellence? What motivates me to strive for academic excellence is being a first gen and making my mother proud. My mother didn't get her degree, so it is vital that I obtain one to lead a better life. My dream to instill confidence in young girls and boys through formulating skin care products makes me more dedicated than ever. I want what I learn in college to positively impact the self esteem of our adolescents and I won't stop until I've achieved my goal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595270486700-Q0SL9D9CQ05LEO6G0YXW/DSC_0055..jpg Current YES I Can Students Nana Amponsah-Antwi What motivates and / or inspires you to strive for academic excellence? My strive for academic excellence is fueled by my family. Being an immigrant from a small country named Ghana in west Africa, I find it essential to work hard and take all the educational opportunities that come my way. My parents brought me here to give me a better life than they had. Doing my best academically is the least I can do to honor and prove to them that I am grateful to be in America. I want my parents to be proud of me and not regret their decision in bringing me here. Also, I have a picture of what I want my future to be like. However, that picture won’t become a reality unless I work my way towards it. I know that I am filled with potential, and I don’t want it to go to waste. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595271063466-AOH9KHXCRD9V82HX5FZN/IMG_6026%2B%25281%2529.jpg Current YES I Can Students Rachana Somaskandan How can young people best prepare if there's possible return of COVID-19? Considering that we do not know enough about the virus to conclude that everything can go back to normal, it would be best to continue following precautions and not be careless with restrictions being lifted and more places reopening. Continuing to maintain a distance with others, communicating more through technology and social media with friends, teachers, etc, and finding interests and hobbies to pursue would let young people be more ready and less affected by a second wave of COVID-19. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595270956665-DQ3M90HST02Z74CRFGEP/cid_E2902048-CFE6-435A-804C-0582DBE03CCC.jpg Current YES I Can Students Jake Windas What motivates and / or inspires you to strive for academic excellence? “My idea of a future motivates me to strive for academic excellence. Picture where you want to be, and work backwards from there. I have very high goals and aspirations in mind, so I therefore need a strong foundation through solid grades and challenging courses. It is not necessarily fear of failure that keeps me moving towards better report cards, but it is more want for success that drives my hard work.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58dbc361893fc01cfcc3ef2c/1595270386205-2WLLV8GNSUYWLBOE2U6L/Image.jpg Current YES I Can Students Lindsay Abbygale In your opinion, what can be done to promote more diversity and inclusion in your school and town/ city? These recommendations are aimed at providing policymakers and administrators with a concrete structure and best practice examples to help them address the challenges of inclusion and diversity in education. The recommendations specifically suggest how schools can: respect and celebrate diversity, advertise the voice of learners, and introduce best practices into their development and self-assessment processes such that these strategies are successful in the longer term. In school environments, both pupils and staff should learn to value the differences within the school community between religions, cultures, and sexual orientation, even if one's viewpoints clash with the beliefs of others. Secondly, Schools can provide training to ensure that teachers and administrators are able to deal culturally sensitively with student concerns and issues and increase the number of staff from ethnic minority groups. Lastly, Teenagers should have their views and opinions heard as decisions are being made for them, for example by providing an important and influential voice to the student councils; student councils should be representative in schools.