We are thrilled to share that two of our exceptional Math Corps students, Kennedy Rosser and Jayanah Branch, recently attended the National Youth Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C. They were accompanied by Paige Scholten, our National Program Support Coordinator, making this an unforgettable experience for all.
Staying at American University, Kennedy and Jayanah got a real taste of college life, from living in dorms to dining in the cafeteria. They immersed themselves in various programs and sessions, covering essential topics such as mental health, positivity, and curriculum reform. Each student joined a group with a mentor to choose a topic they were passionate about, culminating in a one-page advocacy outline. One student focused on advocating against the use of hormones in cows, while the other concentrated on addressing education underfunding and redirecting funds to help children in lower-income areas.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to Capitol Hill, where our team met with a staffer for Senator Gary Peters to discuss how to support Math Corps and the Detroit school system. This experience provided our students with a deeper understanding of civic engagement and advocacy.
Additionally, our students had the unique opportunity to interview and chat with current White House interns, including Math Corps alumna Zora Flounory.
The trip wasn’t all work and no play—our students also toured the city’s iconic monuments, participated in a talent show, and explored D.C.’s vibrant culture. Reflecting on the experience, one student shared, “I didn’t come to Math Corps thinking they’d send me to D.C. I just knew that I love hanging out with my kids.” This journey was a testament to the incredible opportunities Math Corps provides to our students.
Kennedy and Jayanah also highlighted the lifelong friendships they made with students from other camps and how they learned from these peers, bringing valuable knowledge back to their own camp.
We are immensely proud of Kennedy and Jayanah for representing Math Corps with such passion and enthusiasm.