U Prep's Class of 2024: Celebrating Excellence

University Prep Schools' Class of 2024 Celebrates Graduation with Inspiring Ceremonies and Over $23 Million in Scholarships

Detroit, MI — The first week of June was a monumental time for University Prep Schools (U Prep) as the network celebrated the graduation of 355 students across its three districts: University Prep Academy (UPA), University Prep Art & Design (UPAD), and University Prep Science & Math (UPSM). The ceremonies, held at the historic Detroit Opera House, were filled with joy and inspiration, highlighting the achievements and bright futures of the Class of 2024.

Each graduation ceremony featured touching videos of class memories created by senior students, reflecting on their journey and the bonds they formed. Student performers paid homage to their heritage by singing both the United States National Anthem and the Black National Anthem, adding a deep sense of pride and history to the events.

CEO Danielle Jackson delivered heartfelt congratulatory remarks at each graduation, drawing from the wisdom of visionaries like Steve Jobs and Nelson Mandela. "Steve Jobs once said, 'The people who are crazy enough to believe they can change the world, are the ones who do.' So let's get crazy and create the change we want to see in the world," Jackson encouraged the graduates. She also emphasized the transformative power of education with Mandela's words: "Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world. So let's do it."

Adding to the emotional impact of the ceremonies, UPA Assistant Principal Alisha Love serenaded the graduates with a beautiful rendition of Mariah Carey's "Hero," leaving many in the audience visibly moved.

Each district featured distinguished keynote speakers who shared their experiences and insights. At UPAD, Nando Felten, a 2017 alumnus and former class president now championing the Detroit Code NEXT program, inspired the students. Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, the first African-American woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court, addressed the UPA graduates with a powerful message: "Don't let anyone tell you what you cannot do. You don't have to wait your turn to pursue your goals and passions. Your time is now. It's your turn." At UPSM, Lexus J. Giddings, a 2014 alumna, delivered an empowering speech, encouraging graduates to forge their paths.

Graduates were recognized for their academic achievements and commitment to excellence. At UPA, the Principal’s List for those with a 3.9 GPA or higher included Ayah Sulaiman (Valedictorian), Nehemiah Hunt (Salutatorian), Camille Harris, Mia Clark, Joshua Way-Polk, Morgan Richardson, Kendyl Carter, Da'Kaylah Napier, Dorian Whitfield, Mickeal Harlan, and Marcia Gray. UPSM honored Cha'Lecia Edmonds-Johnson as Valedictorian, Teanna Evans, and Jordyn Thomas as Salutatorians. UPAD celebrated Olivia Jones as Valedictorian and Jacey Williams as Salutatorian.

The Class of 2024 from University Prep Schools garnered significant scholarship awards, underscoring their academic prowess and potential. The total scholarship dollars awarded across the network reached an impressive $23,311,422, with UPA students receiving $9,711,592, UPAD students securing $6,339,830, and UPSM students earning $7,260,000.

In addition to these scholarships, Black Leaders Detroit, a cooperative economic non-profit organization, they surprised three UPAD graduates—Layla Christian, Taylor Hill, and Kevin Washington—with a total of $5,000 in scholarships to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. Bowling Green State University (BGSU) awarded a total of 20 President's Leadership Academy (PLA) full-ride scholarships to University Prep graduates, paving the way for their academic futures.

Graduates from University Prep Schools are set to attend prestigious institutions, including Michigan State University, University of Michigan, Bowling Green State University, Grand Valley State University, College for Creative Studies, Wayne State University, Oakland University, Texas Southern University, Clark Atlanta University, Alabama A&M University, Western Governors University, Schoolcraft College, Oakland Community College, and Jackson College.

The graduation ceremonies at University Prep Schools were a testament to the hard work, resilience, and promising futures of the Class of 2024. With impressive scholarship awards and inspiring words from speakers, these graduates are well-equipped to make significant contributions to their communities and beyond.