Program Update

Virtual Workshop at Cornell University for Leadership Academy MS Students

Bessie Morris Foundation thanks the Kessler Presidential Scholars for facilitating a great virtual college prep workshop.

As part of our Leadership Academy, the Kessler Presidential Scholars at Cornell University facilitated a virtual workshop for the students at Johnnie Cochran Middle School in fall 2020.

The Kessler Presidential Scholars are first-generation college students. They shared unique stories, personal experiences and helpful tips on “preparing for college”. Some of the other topics discussed throughout the workshop were: how to apply to colleges; how to successfully transition to college; the support and assistance available at Cornell for first-generation college students; and how and why they made the decision to attend Cornell University. In addition to the panel discussion, Alyssa Lee Orrantia, Associate Director of Admissions, provided an overview of the school, financial aid and other resources available to students. On behalf of the Bessie Morris Foundation, thank you Kessler Scholars and Alyssa for giving back and paying it forward. Job well done!

Also, we must express our sincere gratitude to Patricia Gonzalez, our 2010 Prom Dreams recipient from Fremont High School and her team for making this virtual workshop possible. It was truly a pleasure collaborating with Patricia and her staff at Cornell. There is no doubt that this information was helpful to the students while they prepare for college. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to empowering these students for a brighter future.

Finally, we must take a moment to give a round of applause and a special thank you to Princess Aryee. Ms. Aryee is the dean and coordinator of the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Program at Johnnie Cochran Middle School in Los Angeles. She is committed to the students and works diligently to provide them with the necessary tools to thrive in school and life. We thank you and your students for participating in our first virtual workshop. We look forward to working with Ms. Aryee and her students again in the near future.

Once again, thank you for your involvement in the workshop and your commitment to empower our future scholars!

• Patricia Gonzalez, Assistant Director Multicultural Student Leadership & Empowerment
• Shakima Clency, Associate Dean of Students for Student Empowerment and Director of First Generation & Low Income Student
• Alyssa Lee Orrantia, Associate Director of Admissions & Coordinator of Diversity Outreach
• Sohia Johnson, Student Panelist
• Ahmed Kitil, Student Panelist
• Ariana T., Student Panelist
• Alejna Gejakmanu, Student Moderator
• Princess Aryee, Dean & Coordinator of AVID Program

June 2021