York College Hosts "Pathways: Empowering Young Men's Success" Summit with Community Leaders

York College proudly welcomed a coalition of influential community organizations and leaders yesterday for a powerful morning of dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration focused on the success of young men of color in higher education.

President Dr. Claudia Schrader opened York Opportunity Network’s (YON) “York College Pathways: Empowering Young Men’s Success” program with a message of unity and commitment to the students and community, greeting leaders from 100 Suits, Black Veterans for Social Justice, Life Camp, Inc., Edge School of the Arts (ESOTA), Global Kids, Tabernacle of Prayer, Mount Lebanon Baptist Church, JFK Redevelopment, and York College alumni. The convening took place in the President’s Conference Room and addressed national issues affecting young men while offering solutions rooted in education and partnership.

Following the President’s welcome, Dr. Karen Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, reinforced York’s commitment to supporting the whole student—academically, socially, and personally. She acknowledged the importance of community-based collaboration and emphasized the need to support young men in their college journeys intentionally. Nicholas Jones, Executive Director of Enrollment Management, highlighted York’s accessibility, affordability, and deep-rooted ties to Southeast Queens. Deans Dr. George White and Dr. Fenio Annansingh-Jamieson presented on the College’s strong academic offerings, while Hopeton Allen of the SEEK Program showcased York’s history of success supporting underrepresented students.

The session also featured Roosevelt Smith, who shared insights on mentorship and the work of York’s Men’s Center, and Larry Eaton, who spoke about how the Office of Veteran Affairs nurtures leadership and resilience among students. Randall Houston, from the Office of Admissions, outlined the admissions pathways, provided application tips, and offered ways to stay connected to the College. The program concluded with a Q&A session that encouraged meaningful dialogue and next steps, followed by an optional campus tour.

Yesterday’s YON program was a resounding affirmation of York College/CUNY’s commitment to inclusive excellence and a call to action for sustained collaboration between higher education and the community to empower the next generation of young men.

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