Student U students and staff at the 2024 North Carolina Center for Afterschool Programs’ Lights On Afterschool Reception at the North Carolina Executive Mansion
Dear Friend,
This election marks a historic moment in our country. We know that there are many feelings on both sides of the outcome. At Student U, one thing remains true: our commitment to our students, families, and community. This moment reminds us how essential it is to continue our critical work of building equitable, inclusive learning environments here in Durham and beyond.
As North Carolina prepares to welcome our new Governor, Josh Stein, and our new NC Superintendent, Mo Green, Student U stands ready to continue championing for every student’s potential. This includes advocating for the resources and support our schools need, and we are prepared to partner with our newly elected local and state leadership to do so.
A few weeks ago, I visited the Governor’s Mansion along with a few of our Student U staff and students. Gabe, a junior at JD Clements Early College at NCCU in Durham, spoke during this event about the importance of everyone having the opportunity to discover their best self. As I listened to his words and toured the “People’s House” with our students, I was reminded that the leaders we are building today will have opportunities to change the world tomorrow. After Josh Stein’s time there, one of our students might live in the Governor’s Mansion. Every day, we work at Student U to ensure that possibility is a reality.
Regardless of who holds office, we have the power within our community to make transformative changes in education right now. Together, we will keep working to ensure our students have every opportunity to grow into their fullest, truest selves in a safe, supportive environment. With your solidarity, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to share best practices and effective methods with schools, learn from others’ successes, and shine a light on the gaps that still exist in education.
Thank you for being part of this work. Together, we will build a brighter, more inclusive future for our students and families.
In solidarity,
Elena Maina, M.Ed.
Interim Executive Director
