• Upcoming Tour: April 9, 2023

Staten Island
S.T.R.O.N.G.
HBCU
College Tour

Standing together reaching our necessary goal

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This year's college tour will be April 21-April 26,2024

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About The Tour

Staten Island S.T.R.O.N.G. (Standing Together Reaching Our Necessary Goal) is an organization that promotes higher education among our youth. We embark on this task by conducting annual tours to Historical Black Colleges and Universities. These tours plant seeds of possibility in the minds of our participants and help them prepare for their future. Students in the eighth through twelfth grade are allowed to participate and must maintain at least an eighty average. We want our youth to understand that they must set standards for themselves in order to succeed.

In visiting different campuses, our participants see that there is a world of opportunity beyond their immediate environment. While touring the campus, they interact with current students and obtain a glimpse of the college experience. During information sessions, they receive facts about admission requirements, academic programs, and financial aid. Each student walks away from the tour learning something about each school, and more importantly, about him/herself.

Our success lies in our participant’s desire to further their education, apply to college and obtain an advanced degree. An investment in one’s education reaps a multitude of reward. It is the mission of Staten Island S.T.R.O.N.G. to instill this principle in the lives of our youth.

Our Founders

  • Jennifer Watkins
  • Serena Brothers-Mohamed
  • Arthur Martin
  • Deacon Jessie Barnes Jr
  • Inga Monique Wilson-Hyde
  • Elaine T. Smith
  • Maurice Hyde
  • Mosezetta F. Overby
  • Kendall T Richardson
  • Kelly Etheridge
  • Christy Ekpe

Words Of Appreciation

My name is Isa Edwards-El and I am a Junior attending the Michael J. Petrides High School. Recently, I attended a college tour with the First Baptist Church. When I first decided to attend this trip, I was both thrilled and nervous at the same time. I was thrilled because I was getting away to see what it was like to be on my own, see how well my people skills were and to see which colleges interested me. I was nervous because I was going to be on my own with people I didn’t know. When I first got on that bus to leave, I became very shy but the more I talked to the other kids the more comfortable I got and through that I made a lot of friends. During the trip we visited 10 colleges, Winston Salem University, North Carolina A&T State University, Livingstone University, Johnson C. Smith University, St. Augustine College, Shaw University, Norfolk State University, Hampton University, Howard University, and Coppin University. Some colleges really interested me a lot more than others but I won’t say them because the interests vary with each person.

I can certainly add more colleges to my list from this experience. I would recommend people take a college tour because it’s a great experience in which you meet new people, look at great colleges to help your search and get a sense of how it is going to be when you move out. Thank you Ms. Jennifer and all the chaperones for putting together this tour and I hope more people do what you did to help us children in need of a higher education.
Isa Edwards-El
Again, I can’t thank you enough for hosting the College Tour which allowed my son to broaden his horizons and learn what great opportunities lie ahead for him in college. Your selfless commitment to give back to the community and to highlight the proud heritage and legacy that our Historically Black Colleges and Universities offer our youth is immensely appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.

If I can help with your journey in any way, please let me know and I will be happy to reciprocate the kindness and encouragement you’ve shown toward my son and countless other students.
Vanessa Edwards-El
Vanessa Edwards-ElConcerned, Involved & Proud Parent
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Why Choose an HBCU?

HBCUs have a rich history of providing higher education to African Americans and creating a sense of community and belonging. The HBCU experience offers students a supportive and inclusive environment where they can grow both academically and personally. With a strong emphasis on student success and community involvement, HBCUs provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for their future careers and lives.

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