On Wednesday, November 13, a group of ninth graders at Frankford High School enjoyed hearing from panelists across several Human Services professions during the second session of the College and Career Speaker Series, organized and executed by Philadelphia Education Fund’s College Access Program (CAP) Coordinators, Ahmad Williams and Amaya Cooper.
This session’s theme was “Social in Action: Building Better Futures,” and the panel was comprised of individuals from Frankford’s very own community, in careers that focus on supporting and improving lives: Amir (AJ) Ballard II, the Community School Coordinator; Cammeo Watson, the GEAR UP Coordinator/Specialist; Leah Freedman, the STEP Case Manager; and Katishka Johnson, Marriage and Family Therapist.
Frankford students learned about the various education and career pathways that brought these individuals to their current professions, which all play a critical role in addressing complex issues within their communities and share a commitment to social responsibility. Panelists spoke about their own high school experiences, how they handled the challenges of transitioning to college, and how they each built careers in Human Services, emphasizing that some journeys may involve non-linear paths or several transitions, as one strives to reach their career goals.
Philadelphia’s higher education network was well represented by the panel, which included two Temple University graduates, a Chestnut Hill College graduate, along with a Brown University graduate. This also created an opportunity to discuss various IHEs, ranging from public universities to Ivy League schools, enriching the students’ understanding of the educational pathways available to them.
To close out their time together, the group reflected on the powerful quote by Angela Davis: “I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change; I am changing the things I cannot accept!” This message beautifully underscored the theme of the panel and highlighted to the students the importance of taking action to build better futures.
Thank you to the Frankford HS community leaders for sharing their dedication, passion, and success with students in this setting, helping to motivate them to work harder and dream bigger!
