The Eagle Academy Foundation

thank you so much for having our young men participate in this incredible opportunity.
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What a night at the ball game! ⚾ This past Tuesday, the HDMH Foundation hosted students and members of the baseball team from at the game. met with the young men before the game to emphasize the importance of work ethic, mental health, education and how he has dealt with adversity. Thank you for joining us!

You may know him for his legendary flow and iconic album, Illmatic, but did you know that Nas is also a prominent tech investor? Through his venture capital firm, Queensbridge Venture Partners, the hip hop legend made an investment of $4.5 million into the camera doorbell company, Ring, back in 2014. In 2018, Amazon purchased Ring for a massive $1.1 billion, resulting in Nas earning $40 million in return. Nas’ story is a testament to the youth that with proper research and patience, the world is yours kid. Check out more tips on investing, saving $, and proper financial decision making at our signature event: E4: Eagle Economic Empowerment Expo next Wednesday!

🎓 A big shoutout to everyone who made the All-Male College Fair a success at Borough of Manhattan Community College! We’re proud to announce over 80 exhibitors and 800+ students from 41 NYC Public Schools participated, exploring future paths in education. Together, we’re opening doors to endless possibilities, shaping futures and lead by example for young men of color to always shoot for the stars and aim for the moon! 💫🚀

Thanks to Webster Bank, NY Life, Urban Assembly, and a special mention to Chancellor Banks and New York City Public Schools for their invaluable support and for enriching our event with their presence. Your interaction with the exhibitors and young men truly amplified the impact of our “Bracketology” themed fair. 🏀

Share your experiences with us and let’s keep the momentum going!

The Eagle Academy Foundation’s All-Male College Fair Returns to Impact More Young Men of Color.

Tomorrow.

Link to press release in bio.

🦅 LEGENDARY RUN ALERT 🦅

The Eagle Academy for Young Men at Ocean Hill is on a legendary run.

• Divisional Champions 🥇
• Borough Champions 🏙️
• Back to Back New York City Champions! 🌆👑

Congratulations to the team, coaching staff, school leadership, and the entire Ocean Hill community for this special run. Your hard work, determination, and spirit have truly paid off. #🦅up⬆️

We’re excited to share that we’ve received a $2 million gift from the Yield Giving Open Call!

The —managed by —is focused on elevating organizations working with people and in places experiencing the greatest need in the United States. Our organization does just that by challenging systemic barriers, thereby empowering young men of color to achieve their desired educational, career, and life outcomes. We deliver strategic direct-impact work and advance institutional change toward equity.

"I am deeply moved by this level of support and recognition from Yield Giving,” President & CEO Donald M. Ruff Jr. states. “This is a pivotal moment for us, as it acknowledges our unwavering commitment to young men of color, a group too often marginalized. This generous gift is a testament to a unique and inclusive review process that included those of us on the ground, making a difference every day. We are honored and inspired to be part of a movement that sees, respects, and invests in their potential. Thank you for helping us to scale our impact.”

https://www.leverforchange.org/challenges/explore-challenges/yieldgivingopencall/

🏀🔥 Brooooooklynnnnn, tomorrow is THE day! Eagle isn’t just flying into the PSAL AAAA City Championship; they’re diving in to defend their title! 🦅💪🏾 Taking on rival, South Shore. This year, the Eagles have already shown their championship pedigree in the Brooklyn Borough championship, and now, they’re geared up for the grand showdown. 🏆✨ Join us in this big Eagle moment, where every cheer and shout can make a difference. Let’s fill the stands, support, and rally behind the entire Ocean Hill community as they aim to repeat the glory of 2023! 📣🎉

Exciting Hip Hop Education Event Alert!

📅 Date: TONIGHT
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Come out tonight for an enriching evening that bridges hip hop with the realm of education. This is an opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Featuring Special Guests:

• Grammy Award-winning artist, David Banner ()
• 2-time NY Times bestselling author, Dr. Bettina Love ()
• iHeart Radio’s very own, DJ Whutever ()

Be sure to RSVP! Scan the QR code to secure your attendance.

Celebrate the fusion of hip hop and education.

🔥🏀 It’s SHOWDOWN time, Eagle Family! 🏀🔥

Eagle Brooklyn, our CITY CHAMPS, are back to face Jefferson in a thrilling rematch! Last year, Jefferson clinched the Borough title, but Eagle Brooklyn soared higher, capturing the CITY CHAMPIONSHIP.

Meanwhile, Eagle Bronx is gearing up to face James Monroe, aiming for a victory that sings “Back to Back” like a Drake hit, ready to claim their SECOND consecutive Borough Championship.

📢 Let’s flood the stands with our colors, cheers, and that special Eagle energy! 📢

Gather your friends, family, and every Eagle supporter. It’s time to make noise, stand tall, and back our teams as they etch their names into history.

🦅

Inspired and uplifted: Our CEO, Donald Ruff, and Eagle Academy students were privileged to attend Martin Luther King III’s Lecture & Fireside Chat for Black History Month. Thank you to St. Thomas Aquinas College’s Center for Social Justice for the invitation. This event was an important dedication to social justice and community building.

STATE OF CLIMATE TECH

TOMORROW

5:30pm-9pm

A panel discussion and mixer informing the community on the future of Climate Tech.

BHM REPOST

“Still may the painter’s and the poet’s fire; To aid thy pencil, and thy verse conspire ... - Phillis Wheatley, “To S. M. A Young African Painter, On Seeing His Works” (1773)

For many Black writers throughout history, the pen has served as a weapon, a guide, a microphone and an anchor in the face of dehumanization, political unrest and periods of immense social, political and economic change - publishing poems, novels, essays and nonfiction pieces that capture their lived experiences of discontent, hope, and uplift.

Poets like Phillis Wheatley and Paul Laurence Dunbar gave voice to Black experiences and evoked emotional responses, fierce debates, and eye-opening discussions in the U.S. and abroad. They grappled with how best to address Black concerns like access to full citizenship rights, education, and social mobility.

Dunbar spoke of figurative protective coverings - mental and emotional shields - ‘worn’ by Black Americans seeking self-determination “We Wear the Mask” (1895).

Last year we announced an acquisition of a major collection of work attributed to Wheatley, including a 4-page manuscript of a poem, “Ocean,” written in ink by her own hand. Her “Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral” collection contests slavery on the grounds of morality.

Poetry and literature as artforms capture Black culture and identity on a personal and community level. It is both personal and public.

🎓 Ivan Jackson, Eagle Bronx Class of 2010. Ivan’s story is one of tenacity and leadership, returning to Eagle Academy as the Director of Postsecondary Pathways. He exemplifies the importance of guiding young scholars beyond the classroom and instilling a strong sense of community and identity. 🏫 Ivan’s passion for education and mentorship is shaping a brighter future for many.

Support future Eagles by making a donation this by visiting the link in our bio.

💼 Spotlight on Jamal Trotman, Eagle Ocean Hill Class of 2016. Jamal’s incredible journey from Guyana to the halls of Eagle Academy and Morehouse College, and into the finance world is a testament to resilience and ambition. 🌐 Now working in his family’s financial company and raising a $40 million fund for marginalized entrepreneurs, Jamal is a prime example of giving back and lifting others.

🌟 Meet Mekhi Fields, Eagle Newark Class of 2020 - a true embodiment of brotherhood and resilience. Mekhi’s journey from Eagle Academy to Saint Elizabeth University showcases the power of uncovering hidden talents and capabilities. 📚 His commitment to mentorship, highlighted by his role as the first College Mentor at The Eagle Academy for Young Men of Newark, inspires us all. Join us in celebrating Mekhi’s dedication to growth and community impact.

🦅 This Giving Tuesday, join us in celebrating the soaring success of our Eagle alumni! 🎓 With the best graduation rate in our networks history - 98%, our Eagles are not just achieving academically; they’re making remarkable strides in colleges, careers, and communities. 💼📚

From Mekhi’s inspiring mentorship journey to Ivan’s transformative role in education, and Jamal’s commitment to supporting marginalized entrepreneurs, our Eagles embody CONFIDENCE, LEADERSHIP, EXCELLENCE, ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, and RESILIENCE. 🌟

Be a part of their journey – your support helps nurture more stories of triumph and purpose. Donate today and help our Eagles continue their tradition of soaring to new heights! 🚀

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 The Eagle Academy Foundation is proud to announce our second annual Career Pathways Expo, taking place this Friday, November 17th, from 11 am-3 pm.

At this year’s expo, over 1500 students from NYC Public Schools will engage with over 40 exhibitors, exploring a world of career opportunities.

Click the link in our bio to read the full press release!

🥊 This week at the Eagle Academy for Young Men of Harlem, we had the honor of welcoming Mr. Mauricio Sulaimán, the esteemed President of the World Boxing Council.

In a captivating session filled with personal anecdotes, Mr. Sulaimán shared invaluable insights into the world of boxing, from thrilling fights to the strategic business moves behind the scenes. He shared words of wisdom about resilience, faith, and adversity. His message: “In the face of adversity, keep your heart and mind open. Shutting down can blind you to the potential and opportunities that lie ahead,” resonated with the young men.

We extend our sincerest gratitude to Sulaimán for sharing his journey and insights. His partnership is invaluable in our mission to illuminate the path to greatness for our young men. A special thank you to Principal Edwards, the dedicated Eagle Harlem staff, and our remarkable young men who showed up and represented the best of Eagle Academy. Your enthusiasm and engagement made this event not just successful, but truly memorable.

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🚀 Exciting news from our alumnus, Jamal Trotman! As a recent scholarship recipient of VC Unlocked, Jamal dives deep into the venture capital world with Radix Innovation Capital, emphasizing the “Power Law” in investment strategy. Their focus? Early-stage, diverse founders disrupting tech. Click the link in the bio to read the article!

This , we invite you to speak these affirmations into your life! Healing is our birthright, and we will continue to make joy and pleasure and liberation the center of our lives as we continue to create systems for ourselves that are people-centered and based in care and empathy for our folks. The best part is: We’ve BEEN doing it! ✊🏾 

Share this with someone who needs to hear this message today 🖤🙌🏾

Get the poster version of this affirmation for your home, office or community space! Link in bio ✨

🎨:
📝:

Reflecting on a transformative day at NYUL’s 2023 “Young Men’s Empowerment Day” held at Microsoft 11 Times Square! A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Camara of Eagle Academy for Young Men of Harlem for guiding our group and to Arva Rice for the gracious invite. Our young men delved deep into conversations about post-high school opportunities and networked with some of NYC’s top industry leaders. Truly a day of discovery, exploring new career avenues, and gathering insights from seasoned professionals. Here’s to broadening perspectives and empowering our future! 🌟

Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month! At the Eagle Academy Foundation, we're proud to support and celebrate our Hispanic young men and the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and contributions they represent. This month, we'll be sharing stories of our impactful Hispanic alumni who have soared to great heights. Stay tuned to be inspired! Together, we celebrate and honor the lasting impact of the Hispanic and Latino communities.

Gathering under the sun, generations of Eagles reunited in celebration and camaraderie. Since the first Eagle Academy's doors opened nearly two decades ago, this Eagle Academy Alumni BBQ brought together a wide range of alumni, from the pioneering class of 2008 to our recent graduates of 2023. This was a day filled with nostalgia, food, music, and a spirited basketball tournament. Big shoutout to Carlton Giles and the entire alumni association for making it all happen. We eagerly anticipate this becoming an annual summer tradition.

🎓 Celebrating a new wave of Eagles soaring into the embrace of MBU. With Dr. Jeffries' wisdom lighting their path and the strong foundation laid by the Eagles before them, the future is bright. To the scholars and the families who stand beside them, here's to a journey filled with endless opportunities, growth, and success. May this transformative partnership continue to uplift and inspire. 🦅✨

Attention all Eagle Academy alum! 🦅 Nearly 19 years, six schools, countless memories. Join us on August 19, 2023, for a reunion BBQ to reconnect and reminisce. Secure your spot and register via our linktree in the bio section. Let's soar together once again!

Exciting news! Our very own President & CEO at the Eagle Academy Foundation, Donald M. Ruff Jr., will be taking the stage at the conference. Dive deep into discussions on systemic inequities and be part of the change for Black children's education. Let's challenge the status quo together.

Reflecting on the dynamic three-day journey of our Eagle Summer Institute, we remain in awe of the commitment, wisdom, and spirited engagement that was shared by all attendees.  Last offered in 2019, it was great to re-launch this experience as one of Eagle Academy Foundation’s annual offerings.  “Shifting Mindsets, Strengthening Practices” was this year’s theme, focused on disrupting what we know as normal in the ways that educators engage young men of color. 
 
Day 1 saw powerful conversations with our alumni and student panels, demonstrating the impact of their Eagle experience.
 
Day 2 perpetuated this momentum with engaging roundtable discussions and an enlightening Principal panel, emphasizing our collective responsibility and ownership in this crucial mission.
 
Day 3, and our final day, began with a powerful community Town Hall, underlining the significance of rituals and the village of community support.  
 
Across all three days, our young men were at the center.  Their presence is our workshops, action research and action planning were highpoints that helped to provoke critical discourse around student-centric culture, post-secondary preparedness, and the power of intentional relationships.
 
And to our surprise and delight, our event was capped off with an unexpected appearance and remarks from Chancellor of NYC Public Schools, David C. Banks, and a memorable rendition of Invictus with him and our young men. 
 
Our deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who contributed: participants, EAF staff, alumni, current students, and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts for hosting us.  As we look ahead, emboldened by the inspiration, insights, and unity experienced during these transformative three days, we stand resolute in not just forging a more equitable future, but to elevate the perception, potential, and promise of young men of color, in service of the brighter future they deserve. 

Reflecting on the dynamic three-day journey of our Eagle Summer Institute, we remain in awe of the commitment, wisdom, and spirited engagement that was shared by all attendees. Last offered in 2019, it was great to re-launch this experience as one of Eagle Academy Foundation’s annual offerings. “Shifting Mindsets, Strengthening Practices” was this year’s theme, focused on disrupting what we know as normal in the ways that educators engage young men of color.

Day 1 saw powerful conversations with our alumni and student panels, demonstrating the impact of their Eagle experience.

Day 2 perpetuated this momentum with engaging roundtable discussions and an enlightening Principal panel, emphasizing our collective responsibility and ownership in this crucial mission.

Day 3, and our final day, began with a powerful community Town Hall, underlining the significance of rituals and the village of community support.

Across all three days, our young men were at the center. Their presence is our workshops, action research and action planning were highpoints that helped to provoke critical discourse around student-centric culture, post-secondary preparedness, and the power of intentional relationships.

And to our surprise and delight, our event was capped off with an unexpected appearance and remarks from Chancellor of NYC Public Schools, David C. Banks, and a memorable rendition of Invictus with him and our young men.

Our deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who contributed: participants, EAF staff, alumni, current students, and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts for hosting us. As we look ahead, emboldened by the inspiration, insights, and unity experienced during these transformative three days, we stand resolute in not just forging a more equitable future, but to elevate the perception, potential, and promise of young men of color, in service of the brighter future they deserve.

It's day two of our Eagle Summer Institute and we're absolutely buzzing! We are at LaGuardia High School and have school leaders here from across the country, all on a mission to shape positive school cultures and foster true equity. Our intention continues to be supporting educators to focus on creating environments where young men of color empower themselves to reach their full potential. Our dynamic workshops, insightful talks, and powerful community-building activities are all about providing immediate, actionable strategies for meaningful change. We’re not just talking about change; we're making it happen! Here’s to writing the next chapter of equity in education, together.

On behalf of the Eagle Academy Foundation, CONGRATULATIONS to our Principals, educators, school staff, parents, and caretakers across the Eagle Network. Your efforts have guided over 240 students to graduation in the Class of 2023. To our graduates, remember to stay connected, strive relentlessly, and continue to internalize that final line of “Invictus” .... “Master of my faith, Captain of my soul”. Here's to your future filled with promise and success. Congratulations!