Newark, NJ-October 2, 2024—Mayor Ras J. Baraka joined Newark Works/Summer Youth Employment Program Director Tyreek Rolon, Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery Director Kyleesha Wingfield-Hill, Executive Director of the Brick City Peace Collective Jessiah Paul, and Rutgers University-Newark Interim Chancellor Jeffrey Robinson to launch a Guaranteed Education pilot program. The initiative will provide 13 Newark youth with a debt-free college education at Rutgers-Newark, fully funded for all four years.

The inaugural student cohort will benefit from comprehensive support, including financial aid that serves as “last dollar” funding, covering tuition, fees, and housing after considering federal, state, and institutional financial assistance. Each student will be paired with a mentor from the Chancellor’s Office, offering personalized guidance and support throughout his or her academic journey. Additionally, students will have access to the Honors Living and Learning Community classes and spaces, where they can interact with peer leaders dedicated to making a global impact.

“Part of making progress toward a more perfect union in our city, and our nation, requires changing the landscape of higher education. And that is what we celebrate today, with the introduction of these 13 students embarking on their Rutgers journey,” said Mayor Baraka. “I could not be more pleased for these young people or prouder of them, and I’m grateful for everyone who has helped pave this path for learning, growing and carrying their light into the future.”

Rutgers University-Newark will provide a world-class education that equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the job market and beyond. The program emphasizes the importance of community and accountability, with students required to attend weekly group meetings, bi-weekly mentor sessions, and the annual university convocation. Through this initiative, the Guaranteed Education Program aims to empower students to become change agents, revolutionizing Newark and the world through education and leadership.

“As we have many times, Rutgers-Newark is honored to collaborate with Mayor Baraka’s administration in creating new pathways leading Newark residents to higher education and supporting their educational journey,” said Interim Chancellor Robinson. “This program is an excellent example of how Rutgers-Newark in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office, through existing infrastructure with incredible staff and faculty, celebrates innovation and spotlights the talents of new first-year, first generation college students.”

The Guaranteed Education Program is a testament to Newark’s dedication to fostering educational attainment and creating pathways for lifelong learning and career success. By providing this “last dollar” funding, the City of Newark ensures that students, regardless of their background, can focus on their studies without the burden of financial constraints, allowing them to fully engage in the academic experience and prepare for globally competitive careers.

“Mayor Baraka’s Guaranteed Education Program stands at the vanguard of an unending commitment to young people that will cultivate positive social networks, foster strong communal/interpersonal skills, and stand side by side with youth, to reassure them that they not only have a future, but they are the future,” said Director Rolon. “This program focuses on connecting youth to quality education that will cultivate and foster a sense of purpose, dignity, and triumph.”

“Newark is flourishing because its people are being cared for with tender attention to specific actions that help them blossom,” said Director Wingfield-Hill. “In this case, these young men and women have everything they need to succeed – except necessary funds for tuition, and affirmation of how the City values and believes in them. Mayor Baraka’s Guaranteed Education Program delivers both in full measure, and clears the path for unlimited career options, wealth building, and future generational stability.”

The City of Newark partnered in 2022 with St. Elizabeth University, in Morristown, for a similar program for 40 youth.

The program held a private “meet and greet” for participants on Thursday, September 26.

For photos, click here.

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