For generations, African American and Latino youth have been severely underserved by the public education system, especially those who demonstrated academic talent. As the global marketplace becomes more competitive, it is imperative that access to more rigorous college preparatory schools is provided.

Like our Oliver Scholars, I had the opportunity to attend an independent school for my high school years. As a young African American student, that rigorous education prepared me to navigate the Ivy League and professional school arena and a career as a lawyer and non-profit manager. I will be forever grateful to my mother for helping to open that door for me.

Our young people start out with incredible potential and are challenged to reach higher as Oliver Scholars, leaders and community members. In partnership with the Oliver staff and volunteers, Oliver Scholars and their families learn how to prepare for the admissions process and, once admitted, how to prepare to succeed. The Oliver Scholars Program provides a close-knit, supportive environment that nurtures and closely tracks the progress and needs of the Scholars. Our Consortium School partners have indicated that in addition to the academic and social preparation our Scholars receive, the type and level of ongoing support that Scholars receive throughout their years in high school is a distinctive advantage when considering our Scholars for admission.

Scholars excel academically and socially as leaders and volunteers in their school environments and back in their home communities. Our Scholars go on to successful careers in college and beyond. Our alumni return as volunteers, staff and Board members and are engaged leaders in their communities and companies. This strengthens our Scholars’ communities and supports the movement towards greater diversification of leaders, managers, and professionals in our society.

We are proud to offer this opportunity to families that value education as a path to success, leadership development, and service. The opportunity grows out of a partnership with the families, schools, and communities that are committed to creating a new generation of African American and Latino leaders. We are proud of our Scholars and our results in supporting them to fulfill their potential and their dreams for themselves and their communities. Please consider joining the Oliver Family as a Scholar, Parent, Volunteer, or Donor.

Yours truly,

R. David Addams

Executive Director