SSYP High School Seniors "Reach Beyond"

Congratulations to our seniors from the class of 2023! SSYP is so proud of your accomplishments and wishes you nothing but the best as you take your next steps into the world.  One Thursday, May 25, 2023 SSYP hosted our annual Reach Beyond Celebration, and evening honoring the hard work that these young people have put in.  We were also able to award scholarships through our student support fund to X graduating seniors to put towards continuing their studies, whether that is through higher education, certificate programs, or professional development to build stronger career pathways.  

The evening, hosted by the Teen Program dynamic duo of Dede and Lanaya, included speeches from SSYP’s Executive Director, Chris Sumner, one of our Community Partners, Jessica Ortiz, several of our teens, and Chaniery, an alumni from the class of 2022.  Chris charged our seniors with a tall order, one that we know they can fill; “We need you to be undefeated, because the generation behind you is watching.” Jessica Ortiz, who holds four degrees, shared her personal story of challenges she faced growing up and in high school.  Her pride as she shared her successes was palpable in the room, and she reminded everyone “you will be defined by what you achieve, but also how you survived it.” Overall the night was celebratory, inspiring, and powerful. 

As we send our seniors out into the world, we know that they will represent our community with pride!