Jack Yates Alumni Reunite

JY Alumni News

Jack Yates High School receives Supreme Inspiration

by Terry Singleton

(In photo: Muriel Brown Larry, Ernest Walker, Howard Watson, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Carl Davis, Carolyn Evans-Shabezz, Mary Wilson, Carolyn Scantlebury, and Betty Richardson)

I was truly impressed with Mary Wilson, such class and grace. She addressed the students about history and following their dreams. WE must reinvest in our young ladies to teach them how to be a lady. Her journey was difficult, but she has maintained her dignity and preserved her talent. Kudos to the JY Alums and the gifts that they presented to the school. Thanks Willie Iles ~ We love you Terry Singleton, Betty Richardson and Carl Davis is the spark for all of us!! Go Lions!!

From Carolyn Scantlebury C/O 1965

The Jack Yates Alumni Reunite Committee [JYARC] recently hosted Mary Wilson, one of the founding members of the Supremes. Mrs. Marla McNeal-Sheppard, JY Principal, welcomed her, the JYARC, and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and thanked them for their support. Betty Richardson, JYARC member, introduced Mary Wilson to a crowd that came to their feet with excitement and enthusiasm as the legendary singer approached the podium. Her 'Dare to Dream' presentation perfectly supported the JYARC’s objective of enriching the spiritual and educational development of the Yates student body.

Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee, Minister Howard Watson, Yates faculty, students and visitors listened attentively as Mary Wilson presented her approach to achieving success through self-determination. This best-selling author, motivational speaker and businesswoman vividly transported us to a time where obstacles and adversity challenged her personally and professionally but through sacrifice and Supreme faith she reached and exceeded her goals. She shared personal testimonies that detailed her experiences growing up in the Brewster projects of Detroit where performing in a high school talent show she found her calling and the rest is history.

In a smaller setting, several students from the Jack Yates School of Communications interviewed Mary Wilson. She encouraged them to take full advantage of life’s opportunities regardless of their present circumstances and stressed the importance of faith through perseverance. This type of motivational advice is crucial for their growth. It is important for our youth to understand that socioeconomic status or geographic location does not determine educational achievement or limit personal inspiration. They must never lose sight of the fact that we are a proud, strong people and our strength dares us to dream and believe that our God-given spirit dictates we earn our seat at the table. This mental toughness is the fabric that enables our youth to recycle personal challenges into fuel for success.

Raymond Fontenot, JYARC member, joined by Carl Davis and Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz awarded the resources from a previous raffle to the band, football and baseball teams. This presentation was aided by a video contributed by CNN Analyst Roland Martin and other JY alumni that included Muriel Brown Larry, Joyce Smith and Willie Iles. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee also made a special presentation to the JYARC for leading the effort to enhance the quality of life for the students at Jack Yates.

The JYARC thanks Mary Wilson for her work as a cultural ambassador and remains committed to promoting awareness through self-discovery and advancement through perseverance. We ask all interested parties to join us on this journey stated Terry Singleton JYARC Coordinator.

'Our presence in the lives of our youth is a gift for their future'

Jack Yates Alumni Reunite Committee http://jyalumnireunite.com/

The Jack Yates Alumni Reunite Initiative is a project encouraging all Jack Yates Alumni and Supporters to support this Initiative to benefit the PTO for scholarships, the Mighty Lions Band, and the Mighty Lions Football Team. We hope that you will make a contribution to enhance the lives of the students at our beloved Jack Yates High School.

Click on the button below and make a generous contribution so you can be listed on our Sponsors page

Special Thanks JY Alumni Supporters

JY Class of 71 - Joyce Smith, Willie Iles, Jeff Marshall and the JY Class of 73 - Gerald Joseph, Muriel Brown Larry and Jack Morgan for your unwavering support for this initiative.

Thanks for your support,
Terry Singleton
Coordinator Jack Yates Alumni Reunite
Carl Davis
Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz
Betty Richardson

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