Introduction from Dr. Alston

Dear MBK Community,

We’re excited to bring you the latest edition of Changing the Narrative, filled with powerful stories, inspiring voices, and impactful moments from across New York State My Brother’s Keeper (NYSMBK).

This issue highlights the unforgettable 2025 NYSMBK Symposium, where over 1,000 students, educators, and leaders gathered in Albany under the theme “Their Highest Potential Part II.” From dynamic student-led table talk sessions to keynote addresses by Brian Favors and Jordan Pierre, the event was a celebration of leadership, resilience, and the power of partnership. You’ll also find a moving feature on Jason Martinez, a TOC II student at Pace University, whose journey from shy student to future educator exemplifies the heart of MBK.

We’re proud to announce the induction of the largest-ever class of MBK Fellows—124 young men of color from 50 communities—who are stepping into leadership roles with the support of dedicated mentors.

And great news: video recordings from the symposium are available on the MBK website for those who want to relive the experience or catch up on what they missed.

Thank you for being part of this movement. Let’s continue to uplift, empower, and change the narrative—together.

Your Partner in Education,

Dr. Anael Alston

New York State My Brother's Keeper Symposium

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) hosted the 2025 New York State My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Symposium on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Albany. More than 1,000 students, educators, and leaders from across the state gathered for this event, which focused on the MBK initiative to help boys and young men of color—and all students—realize their full potential.

This year’s theme was Their Highest Potential Part II, which builds on last year's focus and encourages us to delve deeper into our efforts. Throughout the symposium, our MBK students took center stage as dynamic facilitators. They highlighted key insights from mainstage presentations and steered engaging discussions and Q&A sessions, ensuring a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees.

Featured Video

At the MBK Symposium, young men from across the state came together not just to connect—but to rise.

From powerful speeches to heartfelt moments, MBK is more than a program—it's a movement. It’s a space where youth can lead with purpose, advocate with passion, and inspire with authenticity. Hear directly from MBK students as they share how this transformative movement empowers them to grow, lead, and unlock their fullest potential.

Special Feature: Interview with Jason Martinez,

Teacher Opportunity Corps (TOC II) Student at Pace University

From Shy Student to Future Educator: How the MBK TOC II Program is Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

When he first joined NYSMBK as a high school junior in Yonkers, Jason Martinez was soft-spoken and unsure of his voice. Today, Jason is a confident college freshman at Pace University, preparing to become a teacher who will inspire and uplift the next generation. His journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of the New York State My Brother’s Keeper Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II) program.

Finding His Voice Through MBK

MBK was the first step in Jason’s evolution. “I feel like I learned a lot of skills,” he reflects. “Making all those connections with everybody really helped.” MBK gave Jason the confidence to speak up, to lead, and to believe in his potential. It also introduced him to mentors who would become pivotal in his life, especially Greg Joyner, the Yonkers MBK program coordinator, whom he affectionately describes as a “grandpa figure” always cheering him on from the sidelines.

TOC II: A Deeper Dive into Education and Equity

Since joining the TOC II program at Pace University, Jason has gained more than just academic support—he’s developed a deeper understanding of what it means to be a teacher of color. “I’ve learned that your perspective is very important,” he says. Monthly seminars and peer collaboration have opened his eyes to the unique challenges and opportunities in education, especially in underserved communities. “TOC has definitely helped me more on the teacher aspect,” he explains, “especially learning how to connect with families from different backgrounds.”

The program has also provided tangible support, covering the cost of books, offering mentorship from upperclassmen and graduate students, and fostering a strong sense of community. Jason was even accompanied to Albany by Dr. Angela White, Director of the TOC II program at Pace University. “It’s not just one of those clubs where you speak and never see each other again,” Jason says. “They check in on us. Dr. White is always making sure we’re okay.”

Mentorship That Makes a Difference

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of his success. From Mr. Joyner’s heartfelt texts to Dr. White’s ongoing support, he’s felt seen, heard, and valued. “Having mentors that are just in your back corner… that you have their undivided attention—it feels so great,” he shares.

Paying It Forward

As he looks ahead to his future in the classroom, Jason is determined to pass on the support he has received. “Part of being a teacher is being very nurturing,” he says. “All students come from different walks of life… I want to be able to give that support to my students as well.”

Jason's story exemplifies what is possible when young people are empowered with confidence, community, and care. TOC II is not just a program—it’s a launching pad for future leaders, educators, and changemakers.

NYSED Announces Eighth Class of My Brother's Keeper Fellows and Major MBK Community Network Milestone

At the 2025 Symposium, NYSED inducted the eighth class of the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Fellows—the largest ever class of boys and young men of color. Each MBK Fellow will be matched with a mentor from the NYSMBK Community Network and will gain authentic leadership development opportunities at school, community, and state levels.

This year's class now features 124 fellows from 50 member communities. The Fellows will be provided with a mentor from an NYSMBK Community Network partner, allowing them to develop and implement a service project that reflects MBK's mission.

Main Stage Highlights

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr., Commissioner Betty A. Rosa, and Assistant Commissioner Dr. Anael Alston spoke as part of the event's welcome session. Keynote speakers Brian Favors and Jordan Pierre gave inspiring remarks, and Dr. Alfonso Wyatt moderated a panel of MBK Fellows.

Shinnecock Nation students and members of the Young Blood Singers performed a traditional Indigenous ceremony opening.

Keynote speaker Jordan Pierre inspired the MBK students and their mentors as he spoke of embracing one's journey.

Emmy award-winning journalist Cheryl Wills gave a special presentation on the DNA of resilience and spoke about her family's story on their transition from slavery to freedom.

We were also honored to have Principal Baruti Kafele join us and deliver closing remarks.

Lively speeches and performances featured students from Buffalo, Brentwood, NYC Staten Island, Dunkirk, Yonkers, and Uniondale.

MBK Fellows Student Panel

The MBK Fellows Student Panel titled "Lessons Learned, Lessons Applied" was moderated by Rev. Dr. Alfonso Wyatt. MBK Fellows expressed how the program has influenced them and answered questions from the audience.

Rev. Dr. Alfonso Wyatt moderated the MBK Fellows student panel discussion.

Breakout Session Highlights

Michelle Thompson-Taylor, Associate Dean of College Counseling at Choate Rosemary Hall, gave students practical tips on how to stand out in their college applications.

Jeremiah Brown (left), author of Lead Like a Champion, and Jalin Thomas (right), co-author of Clueless Compass, taught young adults how to navigate college and five daily habits to thrive in the future.

Principal Baruti Kafele, renowned author and speaker, drew insight from his latest book, and discussed the specific ways in which mentors, educators, and leaders influence the boys and young men they serve.

Dr. Yolanda Sealey Ruiz, Professor of English Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, explored the role of culturally relevant classrooms and reaching one's highest potential.

Anibal Soler (left), superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, and Dr. Jason Baez (right), executive director of Yonkers MBK, spoke about successful strategies in leadership and the actions necessary to advance the MBK initiative.

College Fair

The College Fair brought professionals from across New York State who are helping to ensure students have access to higher education. Representatives from colleges and universities, the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), the Educational Opportunity (EOP), the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities, and the MBK Teacher Opportunity Corps II were on hand to discuss the unique programming and services, provide resources, and answer questions.

Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II)

The purpose of TOC II is to increase the rate of historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged individuals in teaching careers. TOC II programs incorporate strategies for teacher retention and best practice, such as mentors for new teachers and differentiated instructional techniques.

Oswego TOC II Director Selected for National Emerging Leaders Program

Oswego TOC II Director Dr. Nicole Brown has been selected to participate in the 2025 American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), a national leadership development initiative committed to equity-centered institutional transformation. As part of the program, Dr. Brown will lead a strategic campus initiative that integrates SUNY Oswego’s Vision 4040 with the University-Assisted Community Schools (UACS) model to establish STEM-focused educational hubs in historically underserved Central New York districts.

This initiative is designed to increase college enrollment, expand STEM and educator preparation pathways, and foster regional economic growth through community engagement, academic enrichment, and workforce development. A central component of this work involves alignment with MBK, specifically focusing on the recruitment, retention, mentorship, and holistic support of Black and Brown male students, particularly those pursuing careers in STEM and education.

Would you like to receive future editions of the

New York State My Brother's Keeper newsletter, Changing the Narrative?

Use the Subscribe button below.