As we move into a season full of milestones, celebrations, and new beginnings, we’re excited to share all the ways our Student U community continues to shine! We’re equipping students for success through our Back-to-School Supply Drive, wrapping up the school year strong with U-Prep, and preparing for an unforgettable summer. Additionally, we’ve had some increidble events and opportunities in our community like the recent Prom & Formal Dress Pop-up hosted at the WG Pearson Center, where we are also offering open classroom space for local partners, and a powerful opportunity to join the Student U team as Development Director. There's never been a better time to get involved and stay connected with the magic happening at Student U and within our community.
Empowering Minds:
The Heart of Our Student Programs
Prepping for Success & A Strong Finish to the Year
This month’s U-Prep Night brought our high school students and families together to gear up for a strong end to the school year. We explored summer opportunities and academic enrichment programs, all focused on helping students finish strong. Shoutout to everyone who showed up and fully engaged—your hard work is paving the way for success! Let’s keep the momentum going!
In Loving Memory of Hailee Maye
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that one of our beloved students, Hailee Maye, has passed away. Hailee was bright and passionate and was a loved member of our community. She was known for her energy, her kindness, and her deep involvement at Student U. As a member of the Class of 2025, she recently graduated high school and was preparing to celebrate this milestone at our Decision Day event.
This is an unimaginable loss, and our thoughts are with her family—especially her mom and younger siblings, who are also part of the Student U community. We are staying closely connected with them during this incredibly difficult time.
The family has given us permission to share that a GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover unexpected expenses during this time. For those who feel moved to support Hailee’s family, please consider donating. Any contribution, big or small, is a meaningful gesture of love and care.
A Shared Vision: Building Strong Communities Through Community Schools
This season, Student U continues partnering with schools to grow full-service community school programs rooted in connection. Our Community Schools team recently joined the Southern Roots Symposium, a powerful gathering of education leaders from nearly 20 institutions of higher education across the U.S. South. The focus? Building relationships and sharing how strategies like ours at Student U can help drive the community schools movement forward.
At NHE, the School Advisory Board surprised parents with warm biscuits and helpful flyers during morning drop-off, showing appreciation and sharing updates to strengthen community connections.
Clarke Elementary:
Serving Up Thanks
Clarke Elementary hosted a volunteer luncheon to thank community members whose support helps “change the game” for students and creates a positive learning environment.
Vance County High School:
Spring Extravaganza
Vance County High School’s Spring Extravaganza, led by Joy Wright, brought students and families together for a fun-filled day of dancing, games, horseback riding, and community connection—showcasing the vibrant spirit of VCHS.
Central Elementary:
STEM Adventures
Central Elementary hosted a hands-on STEM Night, where students explored science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, interactive activities that sparked curiosity and inspired learning.
The W.G. Pearson Center: A Beacon for Community and Opportunity
At The W.G. Pearson Center, space and community come together to create a beacon for a brighter future. This spring, we partnered with ShaRanda Stephens @shinebysharanda to host a FREE Prom & Formal Dress Pop-up Shop, offering students, families, and neighbors a whole boutique experience—complete with gently-loved dresses, accessories, and styling support for prom, graduation, senior pictures, and more.
Daytime Learning Space Available at The W.G. Pearson Center Know an organization looking for daytime classroom space? We have a fully-equipped third floor available weekdays, perfect for schools, colleges, or workforce programs—reach out to learn more or share with someone who might be interested!
Be Part of the Impact
We’ve launched our annual campaign, Invest in Bright Futures – Empower Durham’s Youth, with a bold goal: raise $3.5 million. This critical funding supports consistent access to education, mentorship, and the tools our students need to thrive as leaders in their communities.
Student U is on the lookout for a passionate and strategic Development Director to lead our fundraising efforts and help us build a more just and equitable Durham through the power of education.
