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The “First Ever” I Will Graduate Day for New York City a HUGE SUCCESS
NEW YORK, NY October 28, 2007 – The weather outside was wet and dreary but you would never know by the star-power and high spirits at the Entertainers 4 Education Alliance 4th Annual Stay in School Pep Rally & Concert held at Tribecca Performing Arts Theatre on October 27th. Students from the New York tri-state area schools came out to culminate the “first ever” I WILL GRADUATE Day for New York City On hand for the event which was sponsored by HOT 97, Verizon, Coca-Cola, White Castle, Lincoln Technical Institute and Town Audi (Entrepreneur and Social Activist) Russell Simmons, (NBA Legend) John Starks (R&B sensation & Def Jam recording artist) Keri Hilson, (Former NBA Player) Allan Houston, (Music Mogul) Jim Jones, (Def Jam recording Artist) Juelz Santana, (Retired WNBA Player) Kym Hampton, (NY Liberty Guard/Forward) Essence Carson, (Bad Boy recording Artist) Donnie Klang (Grammy award winning singer/songwriter) Brian Mcknight, (SRC Universal recording Artist) DJ Webstar, (Run’s House Star) Jo-Jo Simmons (Universal Recording Artist) Ron Browz, (Hipster Recording artist) The Retro Kidz and (HOT 97FM Morning Show Personality) Peter Rosenberg.
There were several highlights of the evening: Keri Hilson took the stage to discuss the importance of attendance and being on time for school, “Show up even when you don’t feel like it.” Keri talked about the entertainment business and how her education is a key factor in not getting taken advantage of. “You have to, read contracts, documents oversee your finances, and much of what I learned in school prepared me to manage my affairs today.”
Russell Simmons did a sit down interview with Entertainers 4 Education Alliance’s Co-founder and Executive Director Tonya Lewis and answered question from the student audience. Russell took some time on-stage to share his ideals about the importance of giving back and allowing your passion to decide your life’s journey. “Never be ruled by money if you work money will come but allow a higher purpose to dictate your life”. Russell also discussed his keys to success and how to believe in your vision for your life even when no one else believes in it.
Entertainers 4 Education Alliance received a proclamation from Mayor Michael R Bloomberg recognizing the organization for its contributions to the youth of New York City. Excerpts from the proclamation reads: “Since it was founded the Entertainers 4 Education Alliance has done tremendous work empowering our city’s young people to stay in school and pursue a college education. To awarding grants to public school students to help them pay for college to funding after school programs to hosting empowerment seminars and developing public service announcements Entertainers 4 Education Alliance has given so many students the motivation and support to excel in high school and beyond. That’s why our city is so delighted to join the organization in celebrating the first annual I WILL GRADUATE DAY.”
John Starks, Allan Houston, Kym Hampton and Essence Carson took the stage to discuss healthy lifestyle. One by one each of the basketball greats shared about the importance of a healthy lifestyle in order to be successful in life. They talked about eating breakfast every morning and staying away from unhealthy foods. Each shared words of wisdom about how education prepared them for life on and off the court.
Always a crowd favorite Jim Jones & Juelz Santana took the stage together. Jim spoke about never giving up and never settling for less than your personal best. Juelz emphasized involvement in school activities to stay focused and out of trouble.
Additional Speakers included Patrick A. Lespinasse, (Verizon Director of Government and External Affairs) who encouraged student to follow their dreams and strive for excellence. Steven Boyd, Regional (Vice President for the Coca-Cola Company) shared a personal story about overcoming obstacles and finding the power to succeed. Jo-Jo Simmons received much love when he took the stage to boost student morale.
Performance highlights included: Donnie Klang, DJ Webstar & Ron Browz, who pep the crowd up with the latest songs and popular dances.
For more information about E4EA, please visit www.e4ea.org , www.iwillgraduateamerica.org.
Together we can make a difference. (718)385-3133
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