Over 700 girls from The Young Women’s Leadership Schools of East Harlem, Chicago, Philadelphia, the Bronx, Queens (Jamaica), Astoria and Dallas celebrated our first school’s’ 10th birthday in a unique extravaganza held on September 14th at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Grace Rainey Rogers auditorium. Deputy Mayor Patti Harris kicked off the party by declaring the day officially as “The Young Women’s Leadership Day” in New York City.  Founder Ann Tisch introduced a new film “Because of Us” (underwritten by JPMorgan Chase) and students paid tribute to their teachers, principals and CollegeBound counselors who have contributed to the success of our network of single-sex public schools. 

A highlight was the moving candle lighting ceremony where student representatives from every Young Women’s Leadership School (TYWLS) voiced their hopes and dreams for themselves, their fellow students, future students and the world. By far, the most anticipated part of the event for all the girls was the surprise appearance by R&B/Hip Hop star Ciara (hit single “Goodies”). Keeping Ciara’s involvement a secret was a huge challenge for the staff but it was worth the effort once we heard the screams and saw the faces of our students, each that knew the words and dance moves to her songs. Ciara spoke to the students about staying in school, not giving up on your dreams and the power of being a female!  

Every girl was treated to a goody bag, which included a customized writing journal with affirmations and quotes from our very own students, a copy of CosmoGirl! Magazine and product from Loreal. After the event, birthday cupcakes and 10th anniversary t-shirts were delivered to each school, which means the celebration, lives on. We want to thank the staff at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Ciara and the event supporters for making this special day possible.

To date, the 10th Anniversary milestone has been featured in several media outlets including The Daily News, Newsday, Fox 5, WABC-TV and New York Sun (http://www.nysun.com/article/39590). For a full listing of the press YWL Foundation and the schools have received click here.

To view photographs from the “Because of Us” student event on September 14th, please click here.