2023 OCYC Laptop Scholarship Program Award Ceremony
November 8, 2023
What an exciting evening!
OCYC awarded 100 Overtown students new Acer laptops with Microsoft Office 365 licenses—the most in a single ceremony. We received 134 applications. We thank everyone for their submissions. It was a tough decision. However, we selected these 100 students for their compelling essays expressing their needs for laptops and their desires to increase their technology knowledge.
I can finally have my own laptop and not have to share it with anyone. When I have something that’s due today, I have to wait until I get to school to do it.
- Dumel F., Student
Empowering Futures: Celebrating Students' Milestones with OCYC's Laptop Distribution Ceremony
Parents watched with pride as their children were called forward to receive their laptops from Anthony L. Robinson, OCYC Executive Director, and from Dr. Saliha Nelson, OCYC Board Chair. The students beamed for their photo ops and shared their thanks during their video testimonials.
Zyiaire needs a laptop for his classes. He is currently in 10th grade and is enrolled in dual enrollment along. He is also taking 12 grades classes.
- Kimberly M., Parent
Dynamic Speakers Inspire Students Toward Bright Futures
The evening included amazing guest speakers who encouraged the students and gave them much to consider for their futures.
- Jason T. Smith, Director of Equity and Engagement in the Office of Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
- Helen Vilorio, Director of Programs for Girl Power
- Florida Memorial University Student Government Association Members
Empowering Futures: Bridging the Digital Divide for Overtown Youth
To date, OCYC awarded 225 laptops to youth with the goal to reach 5,000 households over the next 5 years. This year was in recognition of National S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. Day with Allegany Franciscan Ministries sponsoring the laptops. OCYC wants to ensure that children and youth enrolled in Overtown schools and youth programs have the technology tools they need to succeed in their educational goals.
Photo Gallery
Videos
