Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
SAN BERNARDINO, CA- On Thursday, May 15, at the Santos Manuel Student Union on the campus of California State University San Bernardino, Youth Action Project (YAP), the Black Voice News Foundation, Young Visionaries and Buffong Consulting Solutions came together to present the 4th Annual Inland Empire High School Black Graduate Recognition Ceremony. The evening was filled with cultural celebration and community connectedness. It ended with a mantra from the students who pledge to continue to support each other, be responsible family members, and leaders within the Inland Empire.
This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Will Greer. He challenged the students to look at the crucial role that education has played in the history of African Americans, as well as a tool to achieve any desired dreams. There were approximately 200 students that were recognized and awarded Kente Stoles that symbolized academic excellence, community leadership, and personal reasonability. In addition, there were eight $500 scholarships awarded based on essays, G.P.A., community service and recommendations. Carolyn Tillman was awarded the Dorothy Ingram Award which signifies a celebration of youth, accomplishment, and culture through the advancement of higher education among underserved population. Tillman represents a drum major that connects and creates opportunities for students of the Inland Empire to ensure their success in college and to develop their potential.
