L-R: Ron Pressman, Roger W. Ferguson Jr., Sandra E. Timmons, and Theo Killion
By Enajite Esegine and Isseu Diouf Campbell
When in 1963, President John F. Kennedy demanded that, “the country provide a chance for every child to be educated to the limit of his talents,” many were reluctant. Nevertheless, A Better Chance, with the help of 16 partner schools opened its door the same year with the mission to provide greater educational opportunities to talented students of color from grades 6 to 12.
After impacting the lives of more than 13,000 students, the organization celebrated its 50th Anniversary on June 11th, 2013 at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan.
That evening, A Better chance, honored Roger W. Ferguson Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of TIAA-CREF, and Theo Killion, Chief Executive Officer of Zale Corporation, for their “strong commitment to giving back, mentoring the next generation, showing strong leadership and being a prime example of what A Better Chance student strives to become.”
The President of A Better Chance, Sandra E. Timmons, alongside former program director Charles Dey, also honored the organization’s first 16 partner schools by presenting them with a Legacy Award.
Among the scholars who were recognized and awarded with scholarships on behalf of their academic excellence, leadership and determination to succeed, Felicitas L. Reyes stood out from the crowd. She was presented with the Judith Berry Griffith Award for her “perseverance and ability to aim high despite any obstacles that came her way. “
The event, hosted by CNBC reporter Bertha Coombs, ended with closing remarks from the Chair of National Board Directors, Ron Pressman.
For more information about A Better Chance, visit abetterchance.org.
Photos of the event
