Highlights from the IYT Mississippi Program Showcase
The power of intentional mentorship and the promise of a brighter tomorrow took center stage at Blackburn Middle School recently, as IYT Mississippi and Jackson Public Schools hosted a Program Showcase to celebrate a successful first year of partnership.
Reaching this milestone is a testament to the lives impacted, dreams awakened, futures being actively shaped through the power of mentorship and brotherhood.
A Day of Reflection & Inspiration
Hosted at Blackburn Middle School, the event brought together school and district leaders, elected officials, families, and IYT scholars for a day of impact and inspiration. We were proud to have a number of IYT team members onsite to guide the experience including:
Michael Casper, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Michaela Edwards, National Director of College Access, Advising, and Completion
Kevin Skipper, Associate Program Director of IYT Mississippi
In addition to our incredible team, we were thrilled to host notable attendees including Rep. Zakiya Summers, Mayor John Horhn, Superintendent Dr. Errick L. Greene, and Principal Eric Jackson.
A Roundtable of Belonging & Connection
During a moderated roundtable, students shared powerful testimonies on how their lives have changed since enrolling in IYT; instilling self confidence, and creating a greater sense of belonging.
As we often see happen, the reflections so candidly offered by our members reinforced a truth that is central IYT: When young men are empowered with the tools, resources, and support to see beyond their present circumstances, they begin to believe in possibilities they previously thought were out of reach.
A Powerful Transformation & A Historic Moment
“The positive choices we make today are guaranteed to improve our tomorrow.”
“The positive choices we make today are guaranteed to improve our tomorrow,” shared Michael Casper, IYT Co-Founder and COO. This sentiment resonated throughout the showcase, and was echoed by Jackson Mayor, John Horhn. In a stirring address, Horhn encouraged students to recognize that they didn’t face life’s challenges alone, and reminded them of the resources available.
In a historic moment, Mayor Horhn proclaimed October 30 as “Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT) Day in Mississippi,” in honor of IYT’s commitment to mentorship, youth empowerment, and positive transformation. This proclamation serves as a powerful acknowledgement of the importance of investing in young men of color, and fostering partnerships driven by shared values.
Another notable attendee was Dr. Errick L. Greene, Superintendent of Jackson Public Schools, who emphasized the tremendous potential within Blackburn Middle School’s students. Addressing the crowd, he noted the significant alignment between IYT’s mission and the district’s vision of developing resilient, adaptable, global leaders.
Eyes on the Horizon, Fueled by Momentum
The results we’ve seen in our first year at Blackburn Middle School wouldn’t be possible without the collective investment of many individuals and organizations. The stories of impact shared at this event are a reflection of the dedication and determination of IYT Brothers, IYT Mentors, school and district leaders, community members and elected officials, and the families and caregivers of our scholars. The collective efforts are a true measure of what’s possible when a community unites around a shared purpose.
As we reflect on this first year at Blackburn Middle School, one message remains clear: Mentorship matters, intentionality matters, and our young men matter. The investment made today is creating leaders, building confidence, and opening doors to opportunities that will extend far beyond the classroom.
We’d like to share a special thanks to:
Jackson Public Schools
Rep. Zakiya Summers
Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus
Jackson Mayor John Horhn
Superintendent Dr. Errick L. Greene
Principal Eric Jackson
WJTV and WAPT
City of Jackson & Hinds County
And last but certainly not least, the scholars, parents, mentors, educators, coaches, and community partners who continue to believe in the limitless potential of our young men.
One year down. A lifetime of impact ahead.