This year 27 Fordham University students volunteered their time to serve as tutors and mentors at the Community Learning Center (CLC). The Fordham students assisted with coursework, took trips to the campus and dining hall with the high school students, and introduced them to various aspects of college. Among the volunteers, were members of the Fordham University Football Team, Dorothy Day Center for Service and Justice Program, The College of Business Administration (CBA) Service Learning Program, and the Boyle Society Scholars.

Thomas Lloyd, known to the students as “T-Lloyd” said, “I think this program is a great lifesaver to the local Bronx students and community. This program allowed me to use my communication and leadership skills. This program taught me the value of my positive presence to the younger adults/teenagers.” Lloyd, a member of the football team and a CBA student, encourages the teens with his life motto, “It’s all about effort!”

Jock Payten, also a football team member and CBA student stated, “I’ve enjoyed the program because of the commitment of the students. It has been a pleasure to be part of all of their lives as I learned just as much from them as they learned from me.” Lloyd Morrison was also particularly impressed by the students. He shared, “They are hardworking, driven, and motivated. They always want to do better. I believe they will have an excellent future.” Morrison is looking forward to joining the students again for the RETC 21CCLC’s Summer Academy when he isn’t working out for football or studying for his CBA classes.

Senior, Shaheen Youssef stated, “My experience at the 21st Century Community Learning Center taught me how
gratifying it is to help students improve, grow, pass their courses, and gain credits.  I am so glad that I had the opportunity to act as a mentor to these kids, and inspire them to always reach for high goals in life.”  Youssef had the opportunity to put his pre-med coursework to the test while tutoring Living Environment and Chemistry.

The Fordham students are a great asset to the CLC. We are very thankful to have had so many faithful and committed volunteers serving our students!