In a few weeks, our HCZ Promise Academy and Zone Programs high school seniors will walk across the graduation stage and into the next chapter of their lives. But first, they had to decide where they’re going to college!
To mark that big decision, we held National College Signing Day 2024. Hosted by our College Success Office (CSO), the annual event is an opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate our seniors for getting into and choosing the college they will attend in the fall.
During National College Signing Day 2024, scholars explored the college experience with themed booths and activities. They learned about college living through a mock-dorm room set up, financial literacy and responsibility with Wealth Builds, and making healthy choices with Healthy Harlem. Our scholars loved getting a preview of college life before setting out on their own!
In addition, scholars enjoyed delicious food, dance performances, and inspiring remarks from our HCZ leaders.
“Your strength and tenacity over the last four years have been nothing short of astounding,” our CEO Kwame Owusu-Kesse said. “You are proof of the impact we’re making at HCZ, and a model of success for communities like ours all over the country.”
“A college degree remains the best way to increase your wealth,” CSO Managing Director Kevin Dougherty said. “And it will be your ticket to enter society in a position of power as you look to start your career.”
As we always say, you may leave the Zone, but the Zone never leaves you. After graduating from high school, our scholars will join a community of 1,500 scholars in college who are transforming their collegiate communities.
They will have the backing of CSO, which helps our scholars get into college and earn their degrees, and Wealth Builds, which helps them build successful financial futures and bright careers. At HCZ, everything we do is geared toward getting our scholars to and through college.
Congratulations, class of 2024 — we’ll see you at graduation!