Celebrating Success: CPM Closing Ceremony at Seminary Baptist Church
The air was filled with joy and excitement as students, mentors, and faculty gathered on Saturday, May 25th, at Seminary Baptist Church in Paterson for the closing ceremony of our College Path Mentorship Program. This event marked the culmination of months of hard work, growth, and educational success for our mentees.
A Warm Welcome
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Dr. Rozetta Schaeffer, the Youth Director at Seminary Baptist Church. Her opening remarks set a positive tone for the evening as she highlighted the significance of the mentorship program in providing SAT support for low-income communities. Reverend Alfred E. Steele, Pastor, emphasized the importance of education in shaping the futures of young students, stating, “Education is a passport to our future.”
Inspirational Keynote Address
Following Dr. Schaeffer’s welcome, CEO Dr. Levent Koch took the stage. His address was nothing short of inspirational. Dr. Koch shared UPLIFT Academy’s journey and underscored the value of each program we offer. He encouraged the mentees to continue their dedication to the program and highlighted the immense impact it can have on their academic and personal growth. Dr. Koch expressed his and UPLIFT’s commitment to serving CPM students, saying, “Your kids are my kids.”
Parent and Mentee Reflections
One of the most heartwarming segments of the evening was the reflections shared by both parents and mentees.
Reverend Alfred E. Steele, Pastor, shared: “I celebrate with you today and congratulations on your new beginning. Continue to advance in your future. Education is a passport to our future, and for that we celebrate with you.”
Laura Fram, parent of Elizabeth Fram, expressed her gratitude: “My name is Laura Fram, and I am the mother of Elizabeth Fram. I am incredibly thankful for UPLIFT Academy and for Seminary Baptist Church for providing this wonderful opportunity for Elizabeth. Prior to Elizabeth starting Uplift Academy, she took her SATs and scored in the 1200s. Since starting the academy, her super score SAT is 1310. What’s exciting is you’re going to invite her back for summer math camp and for next year. I am incredibly thankful for everything you’ve done for her.”
Kareen Ogunmakinwa, a parent of two students, shared their journey: “I must extend my gratitude to Seminary Baptist Church because this is not only my first year with Seminary Baptist and UPLIFT Academy but my second year. Last year, our eldest was part of this program, so I’m not new. I could tell you the world of good, the progress, and the improvements I’ve seen. I just want to thank you for your mentorship and everything you’ve placed into my children. They are not only my children but yours as well because we gave them to you.
I work in Paterson as a public school teacher, and I will be spreading the word. The impact of this program is invaluable, especially in our community where many cannot afford expensive services. I want to say thank you again. The sacrifice of waking up early was worth it; my boys were excited. They woke up on their own and got ready. Sometimes I was the one who was late [giggles]. I just want to say, thank you again. God bless you, I will definitely be spreading the word.”
Ayoola Samuel Ogunmakinwa, a mentee, shared his experience: “I just want to say that this program has been a great benefit to me. My mom mentioned the changes, both mentally and educationally. I have learned a lot, made friends, and had a great journey. It’s a shame it is the end [for this year], but I will definitely be here next year. I am missing my mentor already. I love this program and would love for it to continue. It is the best thing that could happen to a kid who is underserved in this community. Thank you so much for making this program possible for us to learn and have a great experience.”
This program is priceless. We do not want this program to go under because it is in an area where our kids are underserved, and they don’t get a lot of help. God bless you, I will definitely be spreading the word so others know about this service because it is so invaluable and our students and our children in the city really need this.
Kareen Ogunmakinwa, Parent
I am incredibly thankful for UpLift Academy and Seminary Baptist Church for providing this wonderful opportunity for Elizabeth.
Laura Fram, Parent
I just want to say that this program has been a great benefit to me. I have learned a lot, made friends, and had a great journey. I will definitely be here next year. It is the best thing that could happen to a kid who is underserved in this community. Thank you so much for making this program possible for us to learn and have a great experience.
– Ayoola Samuel Ogunmakinwa
Award Presentations
As the ceremony drew to a close, Dr. Levent Koch returned to the podium to present each student with a gift card, a t-shirt, and a certificate for their accomplishments. The room filled with applause and recognition as each name was called, celebrating the achievements of each student.
Closing Remarks
The evening ended on a high note with a closing reception, where participants mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed food. The atmosphere was filled with fellowship and a sense of accomplishment. As everyone bid farewell, it was clear that the College Path Mentorship Program had left an indelible mark on each participant, fostering a community of support, encouragement, and lifelong learning.
The closing ceremony was not just a conclusion but a celebration of new beginnings, setting the stage for future achievements and enduring friendships.
