Seniors from Chase, R-S Central, and East Rutherford high schools joined students from across the nation in celebrating College Signing Day by making a commitment to pursue a postsecondary education. Over 130 seniors made their commitment over the three day event that included music, pictures, icees, and much celebration.
College Signing Day is part of Reach Higher, an initiative started in 2014 by former First Lady Michelle Obama to, “encourage every student in America to take charge of their future by completing their education past high school, whether at a professional training program, a community college, a four-year college or university or the military” (reachhigher.org).
“It was great to celebrate with our seniors as they made a commitment to further their education.” Said Brooks Medford, the Academic Program Specialist at East Rutherford High School. “It is always fun to recognize students for their achievements, especially when it is something of this magnitude. Congratulations to all of our seniors that made that commitment.”
“Signing day has always been something I’ve looked forward to ever since I was little. Not only for my education but furthering my athletic career as well.” said Maddie Gillie, a senior at R-S Central High School. “I have been all remote since the beginning of COVID-19 so it was nice for me to come back and connect with my friends. Especially the seniors that I will be graduating with very soon. The McNair Foundation did a great job of welcoming all of us seniors and congratulating us on furthering our education after high school.”
Cameron Simmons, a McNair Educational Foundation alumnus, currently attends North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. As he recalls his Decision Day in 2019, Simmons expressed his process of choosing N.C. A&T State University. “The reason I chose A&T was because they offered me a scholarship to play baseball and also their construction and engineering program that they offer,” said Simmons. McNair students, such as Simmons, are a prime example of why Signing Day is so celebratory.
The McNair Educational Foundation and Davidson College Advising Corps presented every student that signed with a commitment certificate to congratulate them on their decision to continue their education.
