Summer 2023
Reflecting on the dynamic three-day journey of our Eagle Summer Institute, we remain in awe of the commitment, wisdom, and spirited engagement that was shared by all attendees. Last offered in 2019, it was great to re-launch this experience as one of Eagle Academy Foundation’s annual offerings. “Shifting Mindsets, Strengthening Practices” was this year’s theme, focused on disrupting what we know as normal in the ways that educators engage young men of color.
Day 1 saw powerful conversations with our alumni and student panels, demonstrating the impact of their Eagle experience.
Day 2 perpetuated this momentum with engaging roundtable discussions and an enlightening Principal panel, emphasizing our collective responsibility and ownership in this crucial mission.
Day 3, and our final day, began with a powerful community Town Hall, underlining the significance of rituals and the village of community support.
Across all three days, our young men were at the center. Their presence is our workshops, action research and action planning were highpoints that helped to provoke critical discourse around student-centric culture, post-secondary preparedness, and the power of intentional relationships.
And to our surprise and delight, our event was capped off with an unexpected appearance and remarks from Chancellor of NYC Public Schools, David C. Banks, and a memorable rendition of Invictus with him and our young men.
Our deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who contributed: participants, EAF staff, alumni, current students, and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts for hosting us. As we look ahead, emboldened by the inspiration, insights, and unity experienced during these transformative three days, we stand resolute in not just forging a more equitable future, but to elevate the perception, potential, and promise of young men of color, in service of the brighter future they deserve.
