Community Supports REACH Prep Virtual 5k Walk/Run

(Stamford, CT …October 4, 2021) REACH Prep hosted its second virtual 5k Walk/Run on Saturday, September 25th and Sunday, September 26th, 2021.

The event raised funds to support REACH Prep’s mission: to provide access to transformative educational experiences that empower underserved, high-achieving students to graduate from top colleges and emerge as the next generation of leaders.

The organization exceeded its fundraising goal for the event thanks to the outreach of the Virtual 5k participants and supporters of the organization. Local sponsors included CapitalOne, DataTel and the TNS Group.

REACH Prep Scholars, Alumni, and supporters from fifteen states and three countries registered to walk or run to support the organization’s mission. Fifteen teams were organized, including a team of REACH Prep Alumni and another of REACH Prep Scholars. Participants walked in a location they selected during the weekend and shared photos on social media. The social media buzz of the event drove a second wave of donations that contributed to the success of the event.

To make a donation to REACH Prep, click here. For more information about this event or to learn more about REACH Prep, please visit www.reachprep.org or contact Amy Kiser at akiser@reachprep.org.

REACH Prep Students Learn Networking Skills from Capital One

(Stamford, CT …March 25, 2021) Capital One hosted a panel discussion called “Building and Leveraging Your Network for Personal and Professional Success” for REACH Prep college students and Alumni on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Thirteen commercial banking professionals provided tips and shared their personal experiences with fifteen REACH Prep students and Alumni in a discussion which took place over Zoom.

The topics discussed ranged from explaining what a professional network is, how to acquire contacts through networking, the importance of having an elevator pitch, and how to leverage LinkedIn for networking. Panelist Mirag Vamja, Relationship Manager Sponsor Coverage, mentioned, “Networking takes practice. Practice with your professors, the career office, or anyone else to start so you develop the skill.”

One key theme that emerged in the discussion was the importance of a candidate being authentic during their interactions. Panelist Mark Patchell, Head of MMB Sponsor Finance & Specialties, noted, “if you’re authentic, people will want to work with you.”

Another key theme was how to stand out in a Zoom call. This emerged from a question posed by REACH Prep and Emory College student Nicholas Attai who has attended several Zoom information sessions with potential employers. Capital One panelists mentioned that showing up on a Zoom call early is a great way to connect potential contacts because of the ability to chat informally. In addition, panelist Matthew Morawa, Senior Relationship Manager Sponsor Coverage, suggested, “Asking questions during a Zoom call is a great way to connect. Then follow up afterwards within 24 hours to show your interest.”

This interactive panel discussion was a valuable resource for REACH Prep’s college students and Alumni who are looking for internships or future career opportunities. REACH Prep’s model of providing motivated black and Latinx students from underserved communities with access to high-quality education along with comprehensive and long-term support leads to college success rates that exceed national averages. This event was the second panel discussion that Capital One has held for REACH Prep. They also hosted an interview preparation workshop this past fall which was attended by 17 REACH Prep college students.

For more information about this event or to learn more about REACH Prep, please visit www.reachprep.org or contact Amy Kiser at akiser@reachprep.org.

Macy’s Surprises REACH Prep With Holiday Gift

 

REACH Prep is grateful to accept a year-end gift from MACY’s in support of the diverse community of students and their families served by the Stamford-based, educational access organization.

REACH Prep prepares bright, Black and Latinx students from underserved communities for admission and success in rigorous independent schools, enabling them to matriculate to top colleges and universities. Its model results in high school and college graduation rates that exceed national averages.

“Macy’s has a strong retail presence in Stamford,” noted Kelli Lewis, Director of Corporate Giving for Macy’s. “We are proud to partner with another, long-time community organization that also shares our goals for diversity and inclusion.”

“It was a wonderful surprise to receive a gift from the Macy’s in recognition of our students’ academic efforts during this challenging time,” said REACH Prep CEO Gina Lucas. “A growing number of corporations like Macy’s recognize the value of creating a diverse workplace. Of course, all that starts with a quality education!”