Houston Education Experts Discuss Challenges for Underrepresented Students

HOUSTON – Education has always been the cornerstone for the progress of society. As we usher in a new generation of future leaders, the obstacles and opportunities for academic success become more apparent. High school dropout rates, teen pregnancy, college readiness, paying for college – these challenges are ever-present.

A panel of Houston’s leading education experts will explore the hurdles and opportunities faced by Houston's underrepresented youth at “The Journey to College,” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11 on the University of St. Thomas campus.  The event is hosted by the University of St. Thomas St. Martin de Porres Society, the University’s black alumni association, and coincides with the celebration of the Feast Day of St. Martin de Porres.

Panelists Include:

·         Dr. Terry Grier — Superintendent, HISD

·         Rev.  T.J. Martinez, SJ — Founder President, Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School Houston

·         Daryl Wade — Director, Houston Astros Urban Youth Academy

·         Dr. Jacquelyn Armwood — Principal, Hastings 9th Grade Center

·         Jereland Lott — Director, Upward Bound at Houston Community College

·         Arthur Ortiz – Director, Freshman Admissions at UST

The St. Martin de Porres Society is dedicated to the recruitment, retention and graduation of University of St. Thomas’ current and prospective African-American students. Members of the Society recognize that African-American and all economically disadvantaged students face unique challenges throughout their academic endeavors, and the Society emphasizes the importance of providing the tools to help students succeed academically.  

Schedule:

6 p.m. Mass, Chapel of St. Basil, 3802 Yoakum

7:30 p.m Panel Discussion, Jerabeck Athletic Center, Scanlan Room, 4000 Mt. Vernon

The panel discussion will be facilitated by  University of St. Thomas’ Dr. Dominic Aquila, Vice President for Academic Affairs. The Mass Celebrant is Fr. Brenden Cahill. A reception will precede the panel discussion.

Due to limited seating, please send your RSVP by November 4, 2011. RSVP to Ryane Jackson, Asst. Director Annual Giving at 713-525-2147 or jacksork@stthom.edu.

The University of St. Thomas, dedicated to educating leaders of faith and character, is a private institution committed to the liberal arts and to the religious, ethical and intellectual tradition of Catholic higher education.