On April 8th, 2024, a group of 42 Black male students embarked on the inaugural Central High School HBCU tour, sponsored by the 231 Black Brotherhood. The day, guided by the dedicated efforts of President Katharine Davis, 264, George VanHook, 231, and other alumni, provided a transformative experience that many of the students will carry with them for years to come.
Eric F., 285, described the tour as a pivotal experience in his academic journey.
“The tour was a fantastic opportunity to explore universities and start thinking seriously about where I want to go to college,” Eric said. “I was especially moved by seeing my peers experience a university tour for the first time. It really made me appreciate how important these experiences are for our future.”
Cori B., 285, the Black Men United (BMU) Vice President, found the tour to be a powerful catalyst for personal and collective growth.
“This trip was life-altering for us. It showed us the wide range of career paths available and underscored the importance of higher education,” Cori explained. “It also highlighted the need for us to strengthen our efforts in achieving academic success. I’m excited to see more growth in our community as a result.”
Nafis J.,285, spoke about the inspiration he gained from the tour.
“Witnessing the various activities on campus and interacting with current students was incredibly inspiring,” Nafis shared. “It was amazing to see how these institutions not only excel academically but also play a crucial role in nurturing Black culture. The tour made me more aware of the opportunities awaiting us after high school.”
Mykel F., 284, BMU President, emphasized the unity and purpose fostered by the tour.
“The support from the 231 Black Brotherhood was instrumental in making this tour a reality,” Mykel said. “This experience has not only strengthened our club’s presence at Central but has also created a sense of purpose among our members. We are grateful for the opportunity to explore these institutions and build a foundation for future leadership.”
Feyisayomi A., 284, BMU Event Specialist, reflected on the broader implications of the tour.
“I joined the tour to explore colleges aligned with my interests, but I discovered so much more,” Feyisayomi noted. “The experience taught me about the strong community relationships and the accountability these institutions foster. In spite of the challenges that we faced, we rose to the occasion and shined during our tour. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the 231 Black Brotherhood, Black Men United, President Davis, Mr. Robert Paul and everyone at Central for allowing me to share this transformative experience with my peers.”
The impact of the tour was both immediate and profound. The students left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer vision of their futures. The exposure to these prestigious institutions, combined with the interactive and engaging experiences, has inspired many to pursue higher education with greater determination.
The AACHS commends the 231 Black Brotherhood for their generous support and dedication in making this transformative experience possible. The success of the tour underscores the importance of providing such opportunities for our students, paving the way for their future achievements.
As we move forward, the voices of these students remind us of the significant impact that exposure, support, and mentorship can have on shaping their paths. The journey has just begun, and with continued support, these young men are poised to achieve great things.
