Dominique Pate, Letitia Henderson-Souza, Xenia Simms, Lisa Thai, LaCole Martin, Paul Haymon,  ManVy Nguyen, Ra’Shena Martin. Artanesha Jackson, Chris Nguyen, Arthur Jackson, Vanessa Jennings, Brian McGhee, Antoine Davis, Charles Simms.

On Thursday evening September 7^th, for the first time students who graduated from McClymonds high school gathered at their new home school UC Berkeley. This event was a time of celebration, reflection and commitment, as the students from West Oakland discussed their uniqueness as students from McClymonds attending Berkeley.  As people trickled in, everyone began catching up, talking about all of the changes at McClymonds.  Most of the students still have a very close connection to the school and keep in touch with school staff.  Some discussion topics included student life, navigating the UCB academic system, and staying connected to the community. Facilitator, Letitia Henderson-Souza, mentioned that, “The idea of today’s event is for those of us who are from Mack to talk, network and support each other”.

  Most students were involved in a major or current employment that involved service to the community.  Majors included Education, Social Welfare, African American Studies and American Studies.  Careers included teaching, admissions outreach and social work.

Some common themes from what people learned were:

• Be proud of where you are from
• Without struggle there is no progress
• We are unique
• Work hard, be diligent, avoid distractions
• Stay true to your values
• Don’t forget where you come from
• Stay focused
• We are truly a family

This intergenerational group plans to continue to support each other through a “buddy system” and periodic group meetings.