CONNECT . MOTIVATE . INSPIRE .
“I DON’T SEEK TO INSPIRE WITH MY STORY. I WANT TO INSPIRE INDIVIDUALS WITH THEIR OWN STORIES. MY JOURNEY IS ONGOING, AND I HOPE IT SERVES AS A TESTAMENT TO THE POWER EVERYONE HOLDS WITHIN THEIR UNIQUE EXPERIENCES.”
explains Richmond.
in classrooms. He advocates for representation, highlighting the need for educators who reflect the diverse student population. “We need more Black teachers in classrooms, especially as the number of Black and brown students continues to rise. It’s about preparing our students for college and providing them with role models who understand their experiences,” asserts Richmond. In his role as an educator, Richmond challenges stereotypes and encourages his students to envision possibilities beyond traditional norms. “When students see a Black man teaching, especially in
the elementary or middle school levels, it challenges their perceptions. It’s about breaking stereotypes and showing them that education is a path for everyone,” affirms Dennis Richmond Jr. As he continues his advocacy efforts, Richmond envisions his impact growing through his role as a classroom teacher and his dedication to promoting HBCUs. In the spirit of promoting Black excellence, the UNCF K-12 Education Program stands as a beacon, providing paid summer internships, leadership conferences, case competitions and ongoing support for fellows. The
program’s impact is evident in the success stories of its alumni, contributing to the larger narrative of HBCUs and the relentless pursuit of educational opportunities.
In 2014, Richmond founded The New York New Jersey HBCU Initiative to bridge the gap and provide information about HBCUs to students in regions where these institutions might not be readily accessible. “I started the initiative because I realized there was a lack of awareness about HBCUs in my city. The initiative aims to provide resources and information, creating opportunities for students to explore these institutions,” states Richmond.
As we celebrate the relentless pursuit of Black excellence and
the diverse pathways to success within the HBCU community, individuals like Dennis Richmond, Jr., and programs like UNCF’s K-12 Education Program serve as inspirations, guiding lights and advocates for a brighter future.
Beyond his work with HBCUs, Richmond
emphasizes the importance of increasing Black teachers
VISIT UNCF.ORG/K12 TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNCF K-12 EDUCATION PROGRAM.
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