New York City Public Schools, My Sister’s Keeper Bronx Committee, along with the Office of the Bronx Borough President, hosted the “My Sister’s Keeper Unconference,” on Wednesday, March 27, during which more than 1,000 students, from schools across the Bronx filled the Hayes Auditorium on the campus of the University of Mount St. Vincent.
Honored at the event were former NYC Schools Chancellor and inaugural President and CEO of the Bronx Community Foundation, Meisha Ross-Porter; New York State Commissioner of Education and President of the University of the State of New York, Betty A. Rosa; and 6th president of The University of Mount Saint Vincent, Susan R. Burns. Serving as emcee was MSK Core Team Lead, LA Dunn. Citations of Merit were presented to the three student emcees and three finalists of an essay writing contest called MSK Embodiment of Sisterhood, who won 1st Place in the elementary school, middle school, and high school categories.
“Our young children and teens deserve every opportunity available to acquire the skills needed to thrive and prosper as adults,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “Through the ‘My Sister’s Keeper Unconference,’ we spoke directly to over 1,000 girls and young women across the Bronx about our unwavering commitment to ensuring that they receive the necessary support to become the leaders of the future. I want to thank New York City Public Schools, the My Sister’s Keeper Bronx Committee, and everyone else who played a role in bringing this event to fruition.”
Providing performances during the program were the South Bronx Academy of Applied Media Dance Team, the Songs of Solomon Inspirational Ensemble, with live music provided by DJ Perly.
“The young women in our schools today are the leaders in our city tomorrow, and many of them are already stepping up as role models in their communities,” said NYC Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “Congratulations to today’s essay finalists and to everyone who took part in this amazing display of unity and community.”
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