Community College of Philadelphia’s Rhythm and RISE Celebration
This week on Insight, we're celebrating 60 years of transforming lives through education at the Community College of Philadelphia. Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Dr. Alycia Marshall, the College's seventh president, about the institution's lasting impact on Philadelphia, its commitment to student success, workforce development, and the opportunities it continues to create for generations of students.
The conversation also previews Rhythm and RISE, a special 60th Anniversary celebration taking place on June 9. The event will showcase the creativity and talent of CCP students through live performances, culinary experiences, visual arts, and hospitality demonstrations while honoring one of Philadelphia's most beloved icons, Patti LaBelle, with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Learn how Community College of Philadelphia is preparing students for careers, strengthening the city's workforce, and building a brighter future for Philadelphia. Event Details
Rhythm and RISE: CCP 60th Anniversary Celebration
June 9, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Athletics Center at Community College of Philadelphia Learn More:
Community College of Philadelphia Rhythm and RISE – 60th Anniversary Celebration Follow CCP:
Instagram: @CCPedu
X: @CCPedu
Facebook: Community College of Philadelphia
LinkedIn: Community College of Philadelphia
Saving the Cecil B. Moore Library
For generations, the Cecil B. Moore Library has been a cornerstone of North Philadelphia, providing access to education, technology, workforce resources, cultural programming, and community connection. As discussions continue about the library's future, residents and advocates are raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and ensuring community voices remain central to redevelopment decisions. On this episode of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with community advocates Brother Z, Robin Barber, Siobhan Neitzel, and Cierra Freeman of the Campaign to Save the Cecil B. Moore Library about the importance of preserving this historic institution and the upcoming town hall, Community Voice. Community Development. They discuss concerns surrounding renovation delays, potential relocation conversations, community oversight, and what a true "library of the future" could look like for North Philadelphia residents.
Event Details
Community Voice. Community Development.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
5:30 PM
Church of the Advocate
1801 W. Diamond St.
Learn More:
Campaign to Save the Cecil B. Moore Library: tinyurl.com/CBMLibrariesAreLife/
Young Voices, Big Dreams
Loraine Ballard Morrill welcomes a group of inspiring students from the University YES Academy in Detroit during their visit to iHeartMedia Philadelphia Hosted by WDAS FM's Frankie Darcell. The students share their hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future while discussing the importance of education, mentorship, leadership, and believing in themselves. From career goals to community impact, these young leaders offer thoughtful perspectives on the challenges facing their generation and the opportunities they hope to create for themselves and others. Their visit provided a unique opportunity to learn about careers in media, communications, and broadcasting while exploring the power of storytelling to inform, inspire, and connect communities. Hear directly from the next generation of changemakers as they discuss what motivates them, what success means to them, and how they plan to make a difference in the world.
Learn More: University YES Academy
This week on Insight, we're celebrating 60 years of transforming lives through education at the Community College of Philadelphia. Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with Dr. Alycia Marshall, the College's seventh president, about the institution's lasting impact on Philadelphia, its commitment to student success, workforce development, and the opportunities it continues to create for generations of students.
The conversation also previews Rhythm and RISE, a special 60th Anniversary celebration taking place on June 9. The event will showcase the creativity and talent of CCP students through live performances, culinary experiences, visual arts, and hospitality demonstrations while honoring one of Philadelphia's most beloved icons, Patti LaBelle, with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Learn how Community College of Philadelphia is preparing students for careers, strengthening the city's workforce, and building a brighter future for Philadelphia. Event Details
Rhythm and RISE: CCP 60th Anniversary Celebration
June 9, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Athletics Center at Community College of Philadelphia Learn More:
Community College of Philadelphia Rhythm and RISE – 60th Anniversary Celebration Follow CCP:
Instagram: @CCPedu
X: @CCPedu
Facebook: Community College of Philadelphia
LinkedIn: Community College of Philadelphia
Saving the Cecil B. Moore Library
For generations, the Cecil B. Moore Library has been a cornerstone of North Philadelphia, providing access to education, technology, workforce resources, cultural programming, and community connection. As discussions continue about the library's future, residents and advocates are raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and ensuring community voices remain central to redevelopment decisions. On this episode of Insight, Loraine Ballard Morrill speaks with community advocates Brother Z, Robin Barber, Siobhan Neitzel, and Cierra Freeman of the Campaign to Save the Cecil B. Moore Library about the importance of preserving this historic institution and the upcoming town hall, Community Voice. Community Development. They discuss concerns surrounding renovation delays, potential relocation conversations, community oversight, and what a true "library of the future" could look like for North Philadelphia residents.
Event Details
Community Voice. Community Development.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
5:30 PM
Church of the Advocate
1801 W. Diamond St.
Learn More:
Campaign to Save the Cecil B. Moore Library: tinyurl.com/CBMLibrariesAreLife/
Young Voices, Big Dreams
Loraine Ballard Morrill welcomes a group of inspiring students from the University YES Academy in Detroit during their visit to iHeartMedia Philadelphia Hosted by WDAS FM's Frankie Darcell. The students share their hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future while discussing the importance of education, mentorship, leadership, and believing in themselves. From career goals to community impact, these young leaders offer thoughtful perspectives on the challenges facing their generation and the opportunities they hope to create for themselves and others. Their visit provided a unique opportunity to learn about careers in media, communications, and broadcasting while exploring the power of storytelling to inform, inspire, and connect communities. Hear directly from the next generation of changemakers as they discuss what motivates them, what success means to them, and how they plan to make a difference in the world.
Learn More: University YES Academy
Listen
Watch
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Good morning. You're listening to Insight, a show about empowering
our community. I'm Lorraine Balladmorrow. This week, we celebrate sixty
years of opportunity and impact at Community College of Philadelphia
with President doctor Alisha Marshall, and preview rh Him and
Rise honoring Patti LaBelle. We'll also discuss the fight to
save the Cecil b More Library with community advocates working
(00:22):
for transparency and long term investment. Finally, we meet inspiring
students from University Yes Academy in Detroit who share their hopes, dreams,
and reflections from their visit to iHeartMedia Philadelphia. Stay with
us this week We're celebrating sixty years of education, opportunity
and community impact at Community College of Philadelphia. Joining us
(00:44):
as Doctor Alicia Marshall, the college's seventh president, to discuss
CCP's continuing commitment to student success, workforce development, and expanding
opportunities for Philadelphia residents. Will also preview Prhythm and Rise,
a special anniversary celebration taking place Dune ninth from six
to nine pm at the Athletic Center on CCP's main
(01:04):
campus at seventeen hundred Spring Garden. The evening will feature
live performances, student showcases, culinary creations, and a special Lifetime
Achievement Award presentation honoring Philadelphia music legend Patty LaBelle Well.
Doctor Marshall, congratulations as becoming the president of Community College
of Philadelphia. We have spoken before, but it's always worth
(01:25):
noting what excites you most about leading the college during
this milestone sixtieth anniversary year.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
I think I've had the pleasure of being able to
engage with so many alumni at this time as we
gather artifacts over the past sixty years and talk to
alumni about their experience, and what has been a through
line through all those conversations is CCP has truly transformed
the lives of so many individuals. This year, we're celebrating
(01:57):
sixty years of transforming lives of almost eight one hundred
thousand city residents, and among them, oftentimes, what I hear
from alumni is had it not been.
Speaker 3 (02:06):
For CCP, they would not be where they are.
Speaker 2 (02:10):
And so we are excited to be part of the
celebration and to continue to build on the great work
that has happened to date, and we want to have
another sixty years of transforming lives, families, and the City
of Philadelphia.
Speaker 1 (02:22):
Community College of Philadelphia really is an entry point for
so many people who might not normally have access to
higher education and has impacted generations of students. As you've mentioned,
how would you describe the college's role right now in
Philadelphia because we're constantly evolving.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
I think it's pivotal right now, and I'm pleased to
note that the Community College of Philadelphia is the highest
and roll of community.
Speaker 3 (02:48):
College in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Speaker 2 (02:50):
Right now, there are fifteen community colleges, and even though
some institutions are declining in enrollment, we are continuing to grow,
and I think that speaks to the access to the
high quality education that we continue to provide and the
affordability of the education, particularly now as students are looking
forward to entering into the careers that they're interested in
(03:13):
and really want to be on a pathway to earning
a living wage taking care of their families. The Community
College of Philadelphia oftentimes can offer that affordable option, access
to high quality education and really change lives because of
our accessibility.
Speaker 1 (03:29):
Well, the event Rhythm and Rise will highlight student talent
across music, theater, culinary arts, hospitality, and visual arts. Why
showcasing student creativity and workforce preparation such an important part
of CCP's mission.
Speaker 2 (03:45):
I think we were looking forward to doing something a
little different this year. Typically we have our annual Gala,
which is a really fun event.
Speaker 3 (03:52):
It's really formal, and this time we wanted this to
be an.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Accessible option for students and community members.
Speaker 3 (04:00):
As we celebrated sixty years.
Speaker 2 (04:01):
We wanted to invite everyone into our college to see
what's happening now and the exceptional talent that our students offer.
We thought it would be great to have students be
the centerpiece of the event, and so if you come
to our event, you'll be able to see firsthand our
students demonstrating their art projects.
Speaker 3 (04:21):
We'll have a pottery.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
Demonstration, You'll definitely hear the music from our student musicians,
the Jazz Ensemble, and you'll get to see firsthand some
of our auto students. They've developed and created an electric
vehicle and you can see that and just learn how
our students, our faculty, amazing faculty, are instructing our students
(04:43):
and preparing them for workforce careers and for life.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
Well, Patti Lebelle will be honored with a lifetime Achievement Award.
Why was it important to recognize her as part of
this celebration.
Speaker 2 (04:55):
I think most folks think about Patti LaBelle as an entertainer,
but she's truly humanitarian.
Speaker 3 (05:01):
And what stands out about.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
The relationship between the Community College of Philadelphia and Patty
is that she actually came to our Spring Guarden studio
to record her album, and at that time I had
the pleasure of being introduced to her and actually sitting
in the studio and listening to her record. Such a legend,
such a talent, and it really showcased the state of
(05:23):
the art equipment that we have in our studio. She
was very pleased with that. But it also shows cases
how we're able to teach musicians and up and coming
musicians about recording and how they can learn to be
musicians to be recording artists in the future, and even
about engineering music. And so we have a relationship with
(05:44):
Patty that goes beyond celebrating her as a musician, but
her interest in investing in students and in the career
of music.
Speaker 3 (05:52):
And what she can share with them.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
So we're thrilled to be honoring such a humanitarian, someone
who cares about the community in the city of Philadelphia,
but also who has a touch point already with our
students and with our programs.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Doctor Marshall. The career landscape keeps evolving, and certainly CCP
twenty years ago has to be a very different place
today because the workplace has changed so much. What are
some of the things that Community College of Philadelphia is
doing to keep up with the new types of things
(06:28):
that people need to learn, new careers that people need
to engage in that will allow them to have life
sustaining careers.
Speaker 2 (06:37):
Well, I love that question because I think it's critically
important as you've asked about what the role of the
Community College of Philadelphia is today, and part of our
work is really about maintaining connectivity with industry and partners.
We need to make sure that our curriculum and our
programming is lined up with the needs of today for workforce,
(06:58):
and that is always changing, as you mentioned. So one
of the programs that we want to highlight is our
naval welding program.
Speaker 3 (07:06):
It is a great example of.
Speaker 2 (07:07):
How we responded to the needs of workforce in real time.
We worked collaboratively with the Navy to develop out a
welding program that was unique and specific to what was
needed to work on building submarines for the Navy, a
very distinct type of welding. We were offering welding in
other ways, but we really tailored with the help of
(07:28):
the Navy and our consultants, we tailored this curriculum so
that students can come out and actually learn how to
build those submarines for the Navy specific and it's really
key that they have this particular niche in that space.
We also were teaching them about non destructive testing, which
is actually testing the materials for the naval welding. For
(07:49):
students that graduate or complete our programs within four and
a half months, very short term training.
Speaker 3 (07:55):
If they are doing non destructive.
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Testing specific to the Navy specification, and they're going to
be able to come out and earn seventy seven thousand
dollars a year from short term training, real time example
of how we take help and support from the industry
to turn around and develop out programs that are really
going to train our students for the future.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Yeah, I had a chance to check out your tech
center where I believe students are able to learn how
to repair cars, and cars these days are so complex
they're really like little computers, and so it's not enough
to know how to turn a gasket, but you really
have to know a lot of tech. But there's a
lot of hands on experience that you can get at
(08:38):
facilities like that.
Speaker 2 (08:40):
Yes, and if you come to the Rhythm and Ride celebration,
you'll actually see an electric vehicle that our automotive students
actually built. Wow with our faculty. So it's definitely a
great career to go into. We're thrilled to be able
to work with Toyota. We have the Toyota T ten
program where our students are working and earning while they work,
so they're actually working in the dealerships working on cars,
(09:03):
but they're earning their degree with us at the same time.
So we have tremendous opportunities for students that are interested
in hands on careers and we're really preparing them for
today's workforce in those ways.
Speaker 1 (09:14):
Well, if people would like more information about this upcoming celebration,
Rhythm and Rise happening June ninth from six to nine
at the Athletics Center on the main campus at seventeen
hundred Spring Garden Street. How do they get tickets and
how do they find out more about Community College of Philadelphia.
Speaker 2 (09:30):
Yes, we would love to have all of you there
at CCP dot edu. Forward Slash Rhythm sixty fantastic. Thank
you so much for joining us. Doctor Alisia Marshall, the
college is seventh president of Community College of Philadelphia. Thank
you so much for joining us today.
Speaker 3 (09:45):
Wonderful to be here, Lay Thank you.
Speaker 1 (09:51):
For decades, the cc Will Be More Library has been
more than just a library. It's been a vital community
anchor for learning, opportunity, culture, and connection in North Philadelphia. Now,
community members are coming together to advocate for transparency, accountability,
and long term investment in the future of this important
public institution. Joining us from the Save the Cecil Be
(10:12):
More Library to talk about an upcoming town hall Community
Voice Community Development are Sierra Freeman, brother Z, Robin Barber,
and Shabbon Needzel. They're here to talk about why residents
say community voices must remain at the center of any
redevelopment plans. Sierra, I'm going to start with you. Thank
you so much for joining us, and for listeners who
(10:33):
may not know, can you explain the mission of the
campaign to Save the Cecil Be More Library and why
this effort is so important right now.
Speaker 4 (10:41):
Yes, thanks for having us. So the mission of the
Save the cecilll be More Library campaign is simply to
get the cecilb More Library renovated with neighbor's voice included
in that process. Right now, we're at a place where
a fraction of the funding is on the tape and
we'd like the full funding to be released for the renovation,
(11:05):
for there to be a feasibility study to determine the
square footage available to expand on the library so that
all neighbors have the option for a full twenty first
century renovation. And we're working very hard to make sure
that our voices are included and to make sure that
the full funding is released.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
Brother Z. The ccilbe Moore Library has served generations of
families in North Philly. What does this library mean to
the surrounding community beyond simply being a place to borrow books?
Speaker 5 (11:36):
Right now, that library is serving five communities. Myself, I
use it for my son and my family members to
get out of the cold or to get out of
the heat, for weather, but also to get information. So
with it closing down, these neighbors will have to go
to either downtown like nineteenth Street, the main library, or
(11:56):
to like Lehigh I think the Wiener University, which is
just terrible for the whole community.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
Saban community members have raised concerns about delays, transparency, and
possible relocation discussions connected with the renovation process. What are
some of the biggest concerns that residents are expressing right now?
Speaker 6 (12:15):
I would say some of the biggest concerns are that, first,
the initial plan for renovation was stopped, so this is
just a small renovation is now on the table that
doesn't use all the money. And also this means that
the community wouldn't get the expanded space for programming for
an unknown amount of time. And the reason for that
(12:37):
is because the expanded space for programming would only come
with a new library and that needs another ten to
twelve million dollars raised, So we don't know that could
be in perpetuity that the community isn't going to get
that expanded space that was asked.
Speaker 1 (12:51):
For Miss Robin. The coalition is calling for a full
feasibility and design study before any relocation discussions move forward.
Why is this step so important to the community.
Speaker 7 (13:01):
It's important to the community because it's the first of all,
it's a lot of history there.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
It seas to be more to move it.
Speaker 7 (13:10):
You're moving the history of the neighborhood if there is
an opportunity to expand upon this original location. And as
brother Z faded, we're serving five and six communities. The
history will stay within and we can build upon that
foundation as we've done in the past.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Sierra tell us about the upcoming town hall, community voices,
community development. What can residents expect and why is public
participation so critical right now?
Speaker 4 (13:38):
Community voice community development is critical at this juncture because
this conversation is about the seas will be More Library,
and it definitely expands to us all having us say
and how things are built, how they're built out and up,
and what gets demolished or replaced or moved in our neighborhood.
(14:01):
Today it's the cease will be More Library. Yesterday it
was another institution. Tomorrow it could be a different one.
There is nothing that says there has to be community
consensus in order for these things to happen. That is
largely the reason why we had an initial town hall
about getting what community members wanted for the original rebuild,
(14:23):
and then we had the town hall at Wayland Temple
Baptist saying that we did not want housing above the library,
and we had to include information for neighbors to say
that they're not interested in this building being demolished either.
So every step of the way there's a development or
a redevelopment function of this library remaining where it is
(14:45):
and getting fully renovated. That has to be fought for
right and so this town hall is super critical so
that we can have on record the solidification that community
members' voices not only matter, but they will be taken
into full consideration before making any decisions. So that is
(15:07):
turning everything from hopefully someone saying to us, whether that's
a developer or a council person, saying to us as neighbors,
this is what we are doing, and we're telling you too,
this is something that could happen, but before it happens,
we need to know it's okay with you. And so
(15:27):
that is the intention of this town hall to get
that figured out with the powers that be, and it's
so important for as many people as possible to show
up for that so that we can win, so that
we can get this library renovated, so that we can
get our feasibility study in order to expand on this location,
if that is possible, so that we can move forward
(15:48):
with getting this library renovated.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Now, Sarah, I wonder if you can talk a little
bit about the undercurrent or the factors that are at play,
because you know, everything is about politics, right and certainly
gentrification and urban renewal, which we know has been problematic
in the past, sometimes plays a role. Can you talk
a little bit about some of those kinds of obstacles
that you're facing right now.
Speaker 4 (16:12):
Yes, And I'd also like to tap Shavan in to
talk a bit more about this as well. We don't
quite know as community members, as neighbors, we don't quite
know what the plan is until the powers that be
seek to reveal the plan to us. There's some thoughts
floating around that moving this library could play into a
(16:34):
larger redevelopment plan of a different part of North Philadelphia.
We're not sure. What we do know is that so
many community members have said that they want this library
to remain in this location as the original cease will
be more library. So could there be other factors kind
of swaying some decision making right now? And why we
(16:56):
have been trying to get this library renovated since twenty
twenty two. Maybe are we still in the process that
a lot of neighbors and community members find themselves in
where we may find out about what the true plan
is while it's underway. Possibly is this town hall trying
to get us to a place where that is not happening? Definitely,
(17:18):
And I'd also like to leave a space for Shavan
to chere.
Speaker 6 (17:22):
We've been seeing throughout North Philly, but particularly also in
our neighborhood at Brewery Town. Charles would additional development, and
in North Philly specifically the expansion of the Greater University
in that space that is then defining more of the
things that are going on, and moving this library would
(17:43):
move it closer to that area.
Speaker 8 (17:45):
And so it's also just a question I think that's
out there of how both how would how would that
impact who is able to access the library, but also
who is driving and deciding on how the space is.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
I want to turn to Robin because you're a longtime
resident and I know that when I was coming up,
the library was my sanctuary. I used to go in
and check out seven books a week and read them
all and come back in and spend time after school.
When you know, my parents were working and I needed
a safe place to go. So I wonder if you
can share with us some thoughts about what the Librari's
(18:23):
meant to you as you've been a longtime resident of
the neighborhood.
Speaker 9 (18:27):
I attended that library as a little girl, and more importantly,
as an educator, I stayed within the community at one
of the local schools, and it was important to me
that my students at the time at library cars. So
the librrian myself would work together, we would ensure that
(18:47):
students had what they need so that in the event
they went after school, they could also utilize the library.
So that meant a lot to me because they also
had safe places to go after school and sometimes they
had little programs after school that they could participate in.
So it was a very important structure for the students
(19:10):
that I've taught, which I've taught, I'm not going to
say how many years, you know, it was important to
me that they had the tools that they needed in
order to become fantasize and reading.
Speaker 3 (19:21):
And then maybe you know, expand upon.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
That, Brother Ze, tell us again, when this event is happening,
this town Hall, Community Voice, Community Development, give us the
date the time and the location.
Speaker 5 (19:34):
Yeah, So the town hall will be taking place on
June the tenth at five point thirty at the Church
of the Advocacy. It will be a Wednesday, So everybody
be ready.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
All right, and that's eighteen oh one West Diamond Street
in North Philadelphia. I want to thank you all for
joining us here today. It is an organization talking about
the campaign to save the seas will be more a library.
There is a town hall again Wednesday the tenth over
at the Church of the Advocate at five point thirty
joining us. We had Sierra Freeman, brother Zee, Robin Barber,
(20:08):
and Shabon Netzel. They're all members of this organization that
is working very hard to save an institution that is
beloved by the community. Thank you all for joining us today.
Thank you. I am delighted to introduce young people who
(20:29):
are here on a field trip from Detroit. Of all places,
these are just three, but there's a whole bunch of
kids who are in our studios today. But right now
we have three of them, Benari and Van Leer who's fourteen.
They're all from the University Yes Academy Kilmore, Taylor Parker
thirteen and Madison Williams also thirteen. So thank you so
(20:50):
much for joining us here today. And first of all,
tell us a little bit about the university Yes Academy.
Let's start with you, kim.
Speaker 10 (20:59):
On University Yes Academy is a charter school in Detroit.
There is a lot of things that happens there, like events, programs, stutoring,
the book club. Their students can really be themselves.
Speaker 1 (21:16):
Madison tell us about this field trip a bunch of you.
It looked like a thousand people, but it's probably like
forty people maybe something like that. Why are you here?
I mean being able to come from Detroit to the
Philadelphia area, that's kind of special. Tell us about this trip.
Speaker 11 (21:30):
There's a trip to Philadelphia. I believe that it's a
learning environment to see how Philadelphia is like how it
basically moves in America. If we come to Philadelphia, we
could see a lot of things that might not even
be in Michigan itself.
Speaker 1 (21:47):
Philadelphia is a city of firsts, So this is a
really great place to be, especially now as they're celebrating America.
To fifty and Benarian tell us a little bit more
about what you've gotten out of this trip from Detroit
to Philadelphia.
Speaker 12 (22:01):
This is the city of my brotherhood in It's a
city where it comes from a lot of history in
the background of black people, starting with like the slavery
and stuff. I know there's a lot of meaning in
the roots of it start from here, and I want
to get to know more about it in real time
and real life experience.
Speaker 1 (22:19):
So let's talk a little bit about your dreams and hopes. Okay,
because you are still very young, but I know that
you probably have some idea of the kinds of things
that you might want to eventually do. So let's start
with you, kam Ora, what do you dream about? What
do you dream to be when you get to be
an adult.
Speaker 10 (22:38):
So when I get older, I want to be a
family lawyer. After graduating high school, I plan on going
to a Michigan university and then getting a bachelor's degree.
After that, I'll see then I'll work on wanting to
be a lawyer. After that, I really think I should
get a job so I can have money just the case,
you know, being a lawyer doesn't work out.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Yeah, no, that sounds great. And you know a lot
of lawyers eventually go into politics, so you never know.
The seed might have just been planted here today. Come on,
what about you? What are your dreams? What do you
want to do when you grow up?
Speaker 11 (23:12):
As they say, I'm still trying to figure that out,
but most likely it will be in a medical field
or the government field, because mostly when I grew up,
I want to be successful and help my mother with
financial stuff.
Speaker 1 (23:26):
That's beautiful, you know, it's fine not to know because
I definitely did not know what I wanted to be. Eventually.
I started out wanting to be a ballet dancer, right,
so I went from a long way from wanting to
be a ballet dancer to being in radio. So you
just never know what will pop up in your life
that will set you off in a different direction. And Benarian,
(23:47):
what about you? What do you want to boom?
Speaker 13 (23:49):
What do I want to be when I grew up?
Speaker 12 (23:51):
Is a basketball or a sports industry star. I've been
playing basketball since I was like a little over one
years old, and I have a lot of experience in
that background. I do training with the multiple high school
and college coaches. I want to go to the University
of Michigan to kind of stay home and close to
my family, but if that doesn't work out and going
to the NBA. I want to hop into real estate
(24:14):
and own property because I feel like I'm a very
good salesman and I know how to negotiate when it
comes to things.
Speaker 13 (24:19):
That's really all.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Well, that's pretty great. I wish I had so many
ideas about what I wanted to do at your age,
so I'm very impressed by that. I want to talk
a little bit about some of the biggest challenges that
you face. When I was coming up, we didn't have
social media, we didn't even have the Internet. But now
there's social media, there's deep fakes, there's AI, there's a
(24:41):
whole bunch of stuff out there that it really impacts
your life in so many ways. I wonder, come on,
tell us, what are some of the biggest challenges that
you and people in your age range face.
Speaker 10 (24:54):
Well, the one of the biggest challenges I've faced so
far is maybe rejection because in the eighth grade, you're
going to high school right when you want to go
to exam schools like Renaissance, cast Tech or other schools like.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
That you have to apply for in order to get in.
Speaker 10 (25:11):
Like Detroit Edison. But I wanted to go to Renaissance
or cast Tech, I didn't get in the first time, right,
So that did affect me somehow, but not as bad
as I thought it was, because it gave me motivation
to do a petition which allowed me to get on
the waiting list.
Speaker 1 (25:28):
Very good. So you took you did not take no
for an answer? Very cool? All right? What about you, Khmor?
What are some of the biggest challenges facing you or
people in your aid range.
Speaker 11 (25:38):
The biggest challenge I believe I had face was children
the right high school to go to, because though my
old stories I heard of, each high school I pick
it either has some violence in it, yeah, mostly violence,
And I'm not trying to like get distracted by violence
and just level up in my life, just be focused
on education and trying to figure out what my future
(26:02):
is going to be.
Speaker 13 (26:03):
What about you, Benararan, I feel like the biggest challenges
that I face is like when it comes to like
the violence and the city, like not being able to
go certain places because you never know what people's intentions are.
So I feel like it's not very safe for us
young people to sometimes be out alone because you never know,
(26:24):
Like there's a lot of shootings that go on where
we're at and you never just know. Bullets don't have
a name on it, so you might just accidentally be
at the wrong place the wrong time. And now also
that I feel like when it comes to our generation,
we don't know how to talk about our feelings and
our emotions. We think off of just fighting and resulting
everything in violence, and not knowing how to sit down
and talk about certain things or issues you may have
(26:45):
with someone.
Speaker 1 (26:46):
I love that these young people are so smart. I
wish I was this smart when I was your age.
So hopes for the future. Are you hopeful about the future?
How do you feel about the future?
Speaker 6 (27:00):
Sure?
Speaker 10 (27:00):
Right now I'm already on the path to my future.
Because certain things you do, or certain things that happen
to you happen for a reason. Maybe I'm not meant
to go to the school that I want to go to.
Maybe I'll find happiness somewhere else. I feel like my
future is what I make it. Whatever path I choose
(27:23):
to do is going to affect my life later on.
If I were to choose to, I don't know, drop
out of high school, yeah that'll affect my life. But
if I continue to work hard to get into one
and past, then I'll go on my back.
Speaker 1 (27:39):
All right, Madison, what about you.
Speaker 11 (27:42):
My hopes in life, It's just like I hope I
don't feel in any way un succeed.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
Yeah, yeah, I don't hope I.
Speaker 11 (27:50):
Don't get any financial troubles or any type of health
emergency stuff. Like Camori said, well, whatever happens in life,
it's probably meant for you. And I really do hope
the High Squad Tools to be in is the type
of school that will actually teach me about my future.
Speaker 1 (28:08):
Benari, So what are your hopes for the future.
Speaker 12 (28:11):
My hole set of future would be to be successful financially,
have an impact on the youth, to spread peace and
not violence, and to help my family get out of
the situation that we are sometimes not always knowing we're
going to get in, so just being able to be
(28:31):
a help and can and help them financially.
Speaker 1 (28:34):
You all are very impressive. I love meeting you all,
I love hearing what you had to say, and I
have great hopes for you. You're very articulate, you're smart, you're focused,
you have direction, you have a vision of your future,
and the future may hold surprises that you don't anticipate,
but I have a lot of confidence that You'll be
able to figure it out. You'll be able to pivot
(28:56):
when you need to and go forward when you need to. Comora,
I love that you did give up when you are
not selected by the high school of your choice. Well
you said, I'm not taking that for an answer. I'm
just gonna be persistent until they let me in. And
I love that about all of you, So Benarian Van Lear,
who is fourteen, Kamore Taylor Parker thirteen, Madison Williams also thirteen,
(29:18):
all from the University Yes Academy in Detroit, Michigan. They
are here on a field trip from Detroit to Philadelphia.
Thank you all for sharing your thoughts with us today
and I appreciate you and I wish you all the
luck in the world. Thank you so for you welcome.
Speaker 11 (29:33):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (29:34):
You can listen to all of today's interviews by going
to our station website and typing in keyword Community. You
can also listen on the iHeartRadio app ye Words Philadelphia
Community Podcast. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram at Lorraine Ballard.
I'm Lorraine Ballard Morrow and I stand for service to
our community and media that empowers. What will you stand for?
(29:55):
You've been listening to insight and thank you
Good morning. You're listening to Insight, a show about empowering
our community. I'm Lorraine Balladmorrow. This week, we celebrate sixty
years of opportunity and impact at Community College of Philadelphia
with President doctor Alisha Marshall, and preview rh Him and
Rise honoring Patti LaBelle. We'll also discuss the fight to
save the Cecil b More Library with community advocates working
(00:22):
for transparency and long term investment. Finally, we meet inspiring
students from University Yes Academy in Detroit who share their hopes, dreams,
and reflections from their visit to iHeartMedia Philadelphia. Stay with
us this week We're celebrating sixty years of education, opportunity
and community impact at Community College of Philadelphia. Joining us
(00:44):
as Doctor Alicia Marshall, the college's seventh president, to discuss
CCP's continuing commitment to student success, workforce development, and expanding
opportunities for Philadelphia residents. Will also preview Prhythm and Rise,
a special anniversary celebration taking place Dune ninth from six
to nine pm at the Athletic Center on CCP's main
(01:04):
campus at seventeen hundred Spring Garden. The evening will feature
live performances, student showcases, culinary creations, and a special Lifetime
Achievement Award presentation honoring Philadelphia music legend Patty LaBelle Well.
Doctor Marshall, congratulations as becoming the president of Community College
of Philadelphia. We have spoken before, but it's always worth
(01:25):
noting what excites you most about leading the college during
this milestone sixtieth anniversary year.
Speaker 2 (01:33):
I think I've had the pleasure of being able to
engage with so many alumni at this time as we
gather artifacts over the past sixty years and talk to
alumni about their experience, and what has been a through
line through all those conversations is CCP has truly transformed
the lives of so many individuals. This year, we're celebrating
(01:57):
sixty years of transforming lives of almost eight one hundred
thousand city residents, and among them, oftentimes, what I hear
from alumni is had it not been.
Speaker 3 (02:06):
For CCP, they would not be where they are.
Speaker 2 (02:10):
And so we are excited to be part of the
celebration and to continue to build on the great work
that has happened to date, and we want to have
another sixty years of transforming lives, families, and the City
of Philadelphia.
Speaker 1 (02:22):
Community College of Philadelphia really is an entry point for
so many people who might not normally have access to
higher education and has impacted generations of students. As you've mentioned,
how would you describe the college's role right now in
Philadelphia because we're constantly evolving.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
I think it's pivotal right now, and I'm pleased to
note that the Community College of Philadelphia is the highest
and roll of community.
Speaker 3 (02:48):
College in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Speaker 2 (02:50):
Right now, there are fifteen community colleges, and even though
some institutions are declining in enrollment, we are continuing to grow,
and I think that speaks to the access to the
high quality education that we continue to provide and the
affordability of the education, particularly now as students are looking
forward to entering into the careers that they're interested in
(03:13):
and really want to be on a pathway to earning
a living wage taking care of their families. The Community
College of Philadelphia oftentimes can offer that affordable option, access
to high quality education and really change lives because of
our accessibility.
Speaker 1 (03:29):
Well, the event Rhythm and Rise will highlight student talent
across music, theater, culinary arts, hospitality, and visual arts. Why
showcasing student creativity and workforce preparation such an important part
of CCP's mission.
Speaker 2 (03:45):
I think we were looking forward to doing something a
little different this year. Typically we have our annual Gala,
which is a really fun event.
Speaker 3 (03:52):
It's really formal, and this time we wanted this to
be an.
Speaker 2 (03:56):
Accessible option for students and community members.
Speaker 3 (04:00):
As we celebrated sixty years.
Speaker 2 (04:01):
We wanted to invite everyone into our college to see
what's happening now and the exceptional talent that our students offer.
We thought it would be great to have students be
the centerpiece of the event, and so if you come
to our event, you'll be able to see firsthand our
students demonstrating their art projects.
Speaker 3 (04:21):
We'll have a pottery.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
Demonstration, You'll definitely hear the music from our student musicians,
the Jazz Ensemble, and you'll get to see firsthand some
of our auto students. They've developed and created an electric
vehicle and you can see that and just learn how
our students, our faculty, amazing faculty, are instructing our students
(04:43):
and preparing them for workforce careers and for life.
Speaker 1 (04:47):
Well, Patti Lebelle will be honored with a lifetime Achievement Award.
Why was it important to recognize her as part of
this celebration.
Speaker 2 (04:55):
I think most folks think about Patti LaBelle as an entertainer,
but she's truly humanitarian.
Speaker 3 (05:01):
And what stands out about.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
The relationship between the Community College of Philadelphia and Patty
is that she actually came to our Spring Guarden studio
to record her album, and at that time I had
the pleasure of being introduced to her and actually sitting
in the studio and listening to her record. Such a legend,
such a talent, and it really showcased the state of
(05:23):
the art equipment that we have in our studio. She
was very pleased with that. But it also shows cases
how we're able to teach musicians and up and coming
musicians about recording and how they can learn to be
musicians to be recording artists in the future, and even
about engineering music. And so we have a relationship with
(05:44):
Patty that goes beyond celebrating her as a musician, but
her interest in investing in students and in the career
of music.
Speaker 3 (05:52):
And what she can share with them.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
So we're thrilled to be honoring such a humanitarian, someone
who cares about the community in the city of Philadelphia,
but also who has a touch point already with our
students and with our programs.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Doctor Marshall. The career landscape keeps evolving, and certainly CCP
twenty years ago has to be a very different place
today because the workplace has changed so much. What are
some of the things that Community College of Philadelphia is
doing to keep up with the new types of things
(06:28):
that people need to learn, new careers that people need
to engage in that will allow them to have life
sustaining careers.
Speaker 2 (06:37):
Well, I love that question because I think it's critically
important as you've asked about what the role of the
Community College of Philadelphia is today, and part of our
work is really about maintaining connectivity with industry and partners.
We need to make sure that our curriculum and our
programming is lined up with the needs of today for workforce,
(06:58):
and that is always changing, as you mentioned. So one
of the programs that we want to highlight is our
naval welding program.
Speaker 3 (07:06):
It is a great example of.
Speaker 2 (07:07):
How we responded to the needs of workforce in real time.
We worked collaboratively with the Navy to develop out a
welding program that was unique and specific to what was
needed to work on building submarines for the Navy, a
very distinct type of welding. We were offering welding in
other ways, but we really tailored with the help of
(07:28):
the Navy and our consultants, we tailored this curriculum so
that students can come out and actually learn how to
build those submarines for the Navy specific and it's really
key that they have this particular niche in that space.
We also were teaching them about non destructive testing, which
is actually testing the materials for the naval welding. For
(07:49):
students that graduate or complete our programs within four and
a half months, very short term training.
Speaker 3 (07:55):
If they are doing non destructive.
Speaker 2 (07:57):
Testing specific to the Navy specification, and they're going to
be able to come out and earn seventy seven thousand
dollars a year from short term training, real time example
of how we take help and support from the industry
to turn around and develop out programs that are really
going to train our students for the future.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Yeah, I had a chance to check out your tech
center where I believe students are able to learn how
to repair cars, and cars these days are so complex
they're really like little computers, and so it's not enough
to know how to turn a gasket, but you really
have to know a lot of tech. But there's a
lot of hands on experience that you can get at
(08:38):
facilities like that.
Speaker 2 (08:40):
Yes, and if you come to the Rhythm and Ride celebration,
you'll actually see an electric vehicle that our automotive students
actually built. Wow with our faculty. So it's definitely a
great career to go into. We're thrilled to be able
to work with Toyota. We have the Toyota T ten
program where our students are working and earning while they work,
so they're actually working in the dealerships working on cars,
(09:03):
but they're earning their degree with us at the same time.
So we have tremendous opportunities for students that are interested
in hands on careers and we're really preparing them for
today's workforce in those ways.
Speaker 1 (09:14):
Well, if people would like more information about this upcoming celebration,
Rhythm and Rise happening June ninth from six to nine
at the Athletics Center on the main campus at seventeen
hundred Spring Garden Street. How do they get tickets and
how do they find out more about Community College of Philadelphia.
Speaker 2 (09:30):
Yes, we would love to have all of you there
at CCP dot edu. Forward Slash Rhythm sixty fantastic. Thank
you so much for joining us. Doctor Alisia Marshall, the
college is seventh president of Community College of Philadelphia. Thank
you so much for joining us today.
Speaker 3 (09:45):
Wonderful to be here, Lay Thank you.
Speaker 1 (09:51):
For decades, the cc Will Be More Library has been
more than just a library. It's been a vital community
anchor for learning, opportunity, culture, and connection in North Philadelphia. Now,
community members are coming together to advocate for transparency, accountability,
and long term investment in the future of this important
public institution. Joining us from the Save the Cecil Be
(10:12):
More Library to talk about an upcoming town hall Community
Voice Community Development are Sierra Freeman, brother Z, Robin Barber,
and Shabbon Needzel. They're here to talk about why residents
say community voices must remain at the center of any
redevelopment plans. Sierra, I'm going to start with you. Thank
you so much for joining us, and for listeners who
(10:33):
may not know, can you explain the mission of the
campaign to Save the Cecil Be More Library and why
this effort is so important right now.
Speaker 4 (10:41):
Yes, thanks for having us. So the mission of the
Save the cecilll be More Library campaign is simply to
get the cecilb More Library renovated with neighbor's voice included
in that process. Right now, we're at a place where
a fraction of the funding is on the tape and
we'd like the full funding to be released for the renovation,
(11:05):
for there to be a feasibility study to determine the
square footage available to expand on the library so that
all neighbors have the option for a full twenty first
century renovation. And we're working very hard to make sure
that our voices are included and to make sure that
the full funding is released.
Speaker 1 (11:25):
Brother Z. The ccilbe Moore Library has served generations of
families in North Philly. What does this library mean to
the surrounding community beyond simply being a place to borrow books?
Speaker 5 (11:36):
Right now, that library is serving five communities. Myself, I
use it for my son and my family members to
get out of the cold or to get out of
the heat, for weather, but also to get information. So
with it closing down, these neighbors will have to go
to either downtown like nineteenth Street, the main library, or
(11:56):
to like Lehigh I think the Wiener University, which is
just terrible for the whole community.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
Saban community members have raised concerns about delays, transparency, and
possible relocation discussions connected with the renovation process. What are
some of the biggest concerns that residents are expressing right now?
Speaker 6 (12:15):
I would say some of the biggest concerns are that, first,
the initial plan for renovation was stopped, so this is
just a small renovation is now on the table that
doesn't use all the money. And also this means that
the community wouldn't get the expanded space for programming for
an unknown amount of time. And the reason for that
(12:37):
is because the expanded space for programming would only come
with a new library and that needs another ten to
twelve million dollars raised, So we don't know that could
be in perpetuity that the community isn't going to get
that expanded space that was asked.
Speaker 1 (12:51):
For Miss Robin. The coalition is calling for a full
feasibility and design study before any relocation discussions move forward.
Why is this step so important to the community.
Speaker 7 (13:01):
It's important to the community because it's the first of all,
it's a lot of history there.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
It seas to be more to move it.
Speaker 7 (13:10):
You're moving the history of the neighborhood if there is
an opportunity to expand upon this original location. And as
brother Z faded, we're serving five and six communities. The
history will stay within and we can build upon that
foundation as we've done in the past.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Sierra tell us about the upcoming town hall, community voices,
community development. What can residents expect and why is public
participation so critical right now?
Speaker 4 (13:38):
Community voice community development is critical at this juncture because
this conversation is about the seas will be More Library,
and it definitely expands to us all having us say
and how things are built, how they're built out and up,
and what gets demolished or replaced or moved in our neighborhood.
(14:01):
Today it's the cease will be More Library. Yesterday it
was another institution. Tomorrow it could be a different one.
There is nothing that says there has to be community
consensus in order for these things to happen. That is
largely the reason why we had an initial town hall
about getting what community members wanted for the original rebuild,
(14:23):
and then we had the town hall at Wayland Temple
Baptist saying that we did not want housing above the library,
and we had to include information for neighbors to say
that they're not interested in this building being demolished either.
So every step of the way there's a development or
a redevelopment function of this library remaining where it is
(14:45):
and getting fully renovated. That has to be fought for
right and so this town hall is super critical so
that we can have on record the solidification that community
members' voices not only matter, but they will be taken
into full consideration before making any decisions. So that is
(15:07):
turning everything from hopefully someone saying to us, whether that's
a developer or a council person, saying to us as neighbors,
this is what we are doing, and we're telling you too,
this is something that could happen, but before it happens,
we need to know it's okay with you. And so
(15:27):
that is the intention of this town hall to get
that figured out with the powers that be, and it's
so important for as many people as possible to show
up for that so that we can win, so that
we can get this library renovated, so that we can
get our feasibility study in order to expand on this location,
if that is possible, so that we can move forward
(15:48):
with getting this library renovated.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
Now, Sarah, I wonder if you can talk a little
bit about the undercurrent or the factors that are at play,
because you know, everything is about politics, right and certainly
gentrification and urban renewal, which we know has been problematic
in the past, sometimes plays a role. Can you talk
a little bit about some of those kinds of obstacles
that you're facing right now.
Speaker 4 (16:12):
Yes, And I'd also like to tap Shavan in to
talk a bit more about this as well. We don't
quite know as community members, as neighbors, we don't quite
know what the plan is until the powers that be
seek to reveal the plan to us. There's some thoughts
floating around that moving this library could play into a
(16:34):
larger redevelopment plan of a different part of North Philadelphia.
We're not sure. What we do know is that so
many community members have said that they want this library
to remain in this location as the original cease will
be more library. So could there be other factors kind
of swaying some decision making right now? And why we
(16:56):
have been trying to get this library renovated since twenty
twenty two. Maybe are we still in the process that
a lot of neighbors and community members find themselves in
where we may find out about what the true plan
is while it's underway. Possibly is this town hall trying
to get us to a place where that is not happening? Definitely,
(17:18):
And I'd also like to leave a space for Shavan
to chere.
Speaker 6 (17:22):
We've been seeing throughout North Philly, but particularly also in
our neighborhood at Brewery Town. Charles would additional development, and
in North Philly specifically the expansion of the Greater University
in that space that is then defining more of the
things that are going on, and moving this library would
(17:43):
move it closer to that area.
Speaker 8 (17:45):
And so it's also just a question I think that's
out there of how both how would how would that
impact who is able to access the library, but also
who is driving and deciding on how the space is.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
I want to turn to Robin because you're a longtime
resident and I know that when I was coming up,
the library was my sanctuary. I used to go in
and check out seven books a week and read them
all and come back in and spend time after school.
When you know, my parents were working and I needed
a safe place to go. So I wonder if you
can share with us some thoughts about what the Librari's
(18:23):
meant to you as you've been a longtime resident of
the neighborhood.
Speaker 9 (18:27):
I attended that library as a little girl, and more importantly,
as an educator, I stayed within the community at one
of the local schools, and it was important to me
that my students at the time at library cars. So
the librrian myself would work together, we would ensure that
(18:47):
students had what they need so that in the event
they went after school, they could also utilize the library.
So that meant a lot to me because they also
had safe places to go after school and sometimes they
had little programs after school that they could participate in.
So it was a very important structure for the students
(19:10):
that I've taught, which I've taught, I'm not going to
say how many years, you know, it was important to
me that they had the tools that they needed in
order to become fantasize and reading.
Speaker 3 (19:21):
And then maybe you know, expand upon.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
That, Brother Ze, tell us again, when this event is happening,
this town Hall, Community Voice, Community Development, give us the
date the time and the location.
Speaker 5 (19:34):
Yeah, So the town hall will be taking place on
June the tenth at five point thirty at the Church
of the Advocacy. It will be a Wednesday, So everybody
be ready.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
All right, and that's eighteen oh one West Diamond Street
in North Philadelphia. I want to thank you all for
joining us here today. It is an organization talking about
the campaign to save the seas will be more a library.
There is a town hall again Wednesday the tenth over
at the Church of the Advocate at five point thirty
joining us. We had Sierra Freeman, brother Zee, Robin Barber,
(20:08):
and Shabon Netzel. They're all members of this organization that
is working very hard to save an institution that is
beloved by the community. Thank you all for joining us today.
Thank you. I am delighted to introduce young people who
(20:29):
are here on a field trip from Detroit. Of all places,
these are just three, but there's a whole bunch of
kids who are in our studios today. But right now
we have three of them, Benari and Van Leer who's fourteen.
They're all from the University Yes Academy Kilmore, Taylor Parker
thirteen and Madison Williams also thirteen. So thank you so
(20:50):
much for joining us here today. And first of all,
tell us a little bit about the university Yes Academy.
Let's start with you, kim.
Speaker 10 (20:59):
On University Yes Academy is a charter school in Detroit.
There is a lot of things that happens there, like events, programs, stutoring,
the book club. Their students can really be themselves.
Speaker 1 (21:16):
Madison tell us about this field trip a bunch of you.
It looked like a thousand people, but it's probably like
forty people maybe something like that. Why are you here?
I mean being able to come from Detroit to the
Philadelphia area, that's kind of special. Tell us about this trip.
Speaker 11 (21:30):
There's a trip to Philadelphia. I believe that it's a
learning environment to see how Philadelphia is like how it
basically moves in America. If we come to Philadelphia, we
could see a lot of things that might not even
be in Michigan itself.
Speaker 1 (21:47):
Philadelphia is a city of firsts, So this is a
really great place to be, especially now as they're celebrating America.
To fifty and Benarian tell us a little bit more
about what you've gotten out of this trip from Detroit
to Philadelphia.
Speaker 12 (22:01):
This is the city of my brotherhood in It's a
city where it comes from a lot of history in
the background of black people, starting with like the slavery
and stuff. I know there's a lot of meaning in
the roots of it start from here, and I want
to get to know more about it in real time
and real life experience.
Speaker 1 (22:19):
So let's talk a little bit about your dreams and hopes. Okay,
because you are still very young, but I know that
you probably have some idea of the kinds of things
that you might want to eventually do. So let's start
with you, kam Ora, what do you dream about? What
do you dream to be when you get to be
an adult.
Speaker 10 (22:38):
So when I get older, I want to be a
family lawyer. After graduating high school, I plan on going
to a Michigan university and then getting a bachelor's degree.
After that, I'll see then I'll work on wanting to
be a lawyer. After that, I really think I should
get a job so I can have money just the case,
you know, being a lawyer doesn't work out.
Speaker 1 (23:00):
Yeah, no, that sounds great. And you know a lot
of lawyers eventually go into politics, so you never know.
The seed might have just been planted here today. Come on,
what about you? What are your dreams? What do you
want to do when you grow up?
Speaker 11 (23:12):
As they say, I'm still trying to figure that out,
but most likely it will be in a medical field
or the government field, because mostly when I grew up,
I want to be successful and help my mother with
financial stuff.
Speaker 1 (23:26):
That's beautiful, you know, it's fine not to know because
I definitely did not know what I wanted to be. Eventually.
I started out wanting to be a ballet dancer, right,
so I went from a long way from wanting to
be a ballet dancer to being in radio. So you
just never know what will pop up in your life
that will set you off in a different direction. And Benarian,
(23:47):
what about you? What do you want to boom?
Speaker 13 (23:49):
What do I want to be when I grew up?
Speaker 12 (23:51):
Is a basketball or a sports industry star. I've been
playing basketball since I was like a little over one
years old, and I have a lot of experience in
that background. I do training with the multiple high school
and college coaches. I want to go to the University
of Michigan to kind of stay home and close to
my family, but if that doesn't work out and going
to the NBA. I want to hop into real estate
(24:14):
and own property because I feel like I'm a very
good salesman and I know how to negotiate when it
comes to things.
Speaker 13 (24:19):
That's really all.
Speaker 1 (24:20):
Well, that's pretty great. I wish I had so many
ideas about what I wanted to do at your age,
so I'm very impressed by that. I want to talk
a little bit about some of the biggest challenges that
you face. When I was coming up, we didn't have
social media, we didn't even have the Internet. But now
there's social media, there's deep fakes, there's AI, there's a
(24:41):
whole bunch of stuff out there that it really impacts
your life in so many ways. I wonder, come on,
tell us, what are some of the biggest challenges that
you and people in your age range face.
Speaker 10 (24:54):
Well, the one of the biggest challenges I've faced so
far is maybe rejection because in the eighth grade, you're
going to high school right when you want to go
to exam schools like Renaissance, cast Tech or other schools like.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
That you have to apply for in order to get in.
Speaker 10 (25:11):
Like Detroit Edison. But I wanted to go to Renaissance
or cast Tech, I didn't get in the first time, right,
So that did affect me somehow, but not as bad
as I thought it was, because it gave me motivation
to do a petition which allowed me to get on
the waiting list.
Speaker 1 (25:28):
Very good. So you took you did not take no
for an answer? Very cool? All right? What about you, Khmor?
What are some of the biggest challenges facing you or
people in your aid range.
Speaker 11 (25:38):
The biggest challenge I believe I had face was children
the right high school to go to, because though my
old stories I heard of, each high school I pick
it either has some violence in it, yeah, mostly violence,
And I'm not trying to like get distracted by violence
and just level up in my life, just be focused
on education and trying to figure out what my future
(26:02):
is going to be.
Speaker 13 (26:03):
What about you, Benararan, I feel like the biggest challenges
that I face is like when it comes to like
the violence and the city, like not being able to
go certain places because you never know what people's intentions are.
So I feel like it's not very safe for us
young people to sometimes be out alone because you never know,
(26:24):
Like there's a lot of shootings that go on where
we're at and you never just know. Bullets don't have
a name on it, so you might just accidentally be
at the wrong place the wrong time. And now also
that I feel like when it comes to our generation,
we don't know how to talk about our feelings and
our emotions. We think off of just fighting and resulting
everything in violence, and not knowing how to sit down
and talk about certain things or issues you may have
(26:45):
with someone.
Speaker 1 (26:46):
I love that these young people are so smart. I
wish I was this smart when I was your age.
So hopes for the future. Are you hopeful about the future?
How do you feel about the future?
Speaker 6 (27:00):
Sure?
Speaker 10 (27:00):
Right now I'm already on the path to my future.
Because certain things you do, or certain things that happen
to you happen for a reason. Maybe I'm not meant
to go to the school that I want to go to.
Maybe I'll find happiness somewhere else. I feel like my
future is what I make it. Whatever path I choose
(27:23):
to do is going to affect my life later on.
If I were to choose to, I don't know, drop
out of high school, yeah that'll affect my life. But
if I continue to work hard to get into one
and past, then I'll go on my back.
Speaker 1 (27:39):
All right, Madison, what about you.
Speaker 11 (27:42):
My hopes in life, It's just like I hope I
don't feel in any way un succeed.
Speaker 1 (27:49):
Yeah, yeah, I don't hope I.
Speaker 11 (27:50):
Don't get any financial troubles or any type of health
emergency stuff. Like Camori said, well, whatever happens in life,
it's probably meant for you. And I really do hope
the High Squad Tools to be in is the type
of school that will actually teach me about my future.
Speaker 1 (28:08):
Benari, So what are your hopes for the future.
Speaker 12 (28:11):
My hole set of future would be to be successful financially,
have an impact on the youth, to spread peace and
not violence, and to help my family get out of
the situation that we are sometimes not always knowing we're
going to get in, so just being able to be
(28:31):
a help and can and help them financially.
Speaker 1 (28:34):
You all are very impressive. I love meeting you all,
I love hearing what you had to say, and I
have great hopes for you. You're very articulate, you're smart, you're focused,
you have direction, you have a vision of your future,
and the future may hold surprises that you don't anticipate,
but I have a lot of confidence that You'll be
able to figure it out. You'll be able to pivot
(28:56):
when you need to and go forward when you need to. Comora,
I love that you did give up when you are
not selected by the high school of your choice. Well
you said, I'm not taking that for an answer. I'm
just gonna be persistent until they let me in. And
I love that about all of you, So Benarian Van Lear,
who is fourteen, Kamore Taylor Parker thirteen, Madison Williams also thirteen,
(29:18):
all from the University Yes Academy in Detroit, Michigan. They
are here on a field trip from Detroit to Philadelphia.
Thank you all for sharing your thoughts with us today
and I appreciate you and I wish you all the
luck in the world. Thank you so for you welcome.
Speaker 11 (29:33):
Thank you.
Speaker 1 (29:34):
You can listen to all of today's interviews by going
to our station website and typing in keyword Community. You
can also listen on the iHeartRadio app ye Words Philadelphia
Community Podcast. Follow me on Twitter and Instagram at Lorraine Ballard.
I'm Lorraine Ballard Morrow and I stand for service to
our community and media that empowers. What will you stand for?
(29:55):
You've been listening to insight and thank you
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Hey Jonas!
Hey Jonas! The official Jonas Brothers podcast. Hosted by Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas. It’s the Jonas Brothers you know... musicians, actors, and well, yes, brothers. Now, they’re sharing another side of themselves in the playful, intimate, and irreverent way only they can. Spend time with the Jonas Brothers here and stay a little bit longer for deep conversations like never before.
Betrayal Weekly
Betrayal Weekly is back for a new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. If you would like to share your story, you can reach out to the Betrayal Team by emailing them at betrayalpod@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram at @betrayalpod and @glasspodcasts. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations, and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience, and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack.