Welcome to Forward Impact Academy
Culturally Affirming College and Career Advising for Diverse Communities
Welcome to Forward Impact Academy
Culturally Affirming College and Career Advising for Diverse Communities
Our Mission
We believe that every young person, no matter where they come from, deserves multiple college and career options, including STEM pathways and entrepreneurship opportunities. We're here to ensure that the pivotal moments of transition become opportunities for everyone in diverse communities.
Our goal is simple yet powerful: to break down the barriers that stand between you and the resources you need to excel. We're committed to providing the highest quality guidance and support, no exceptions. Because your potential knows no bounds – and neither should your access to the tools that'll help you shine.
What We Do
Centering Your Diversity
Charting Your Course to Success
Centering Your Diversity
Welcome to Forward Impact Academy! Our foundation is built by a team of accomplished leaders in education and career growth. These are the minds behind prestigious institutions like Howard, MIT, Duke, and UNC-CH, as well as innovators from Fortune 500 companies.
What sets us apart? Our unwavering commitment to your success. We're here for
Welcome to Forward Impact Academy! Our foundation is built by a team of accomplished leaders in education and career growth. These are the minds behind prestigious institutions like Howard, MIT, Duke, and UNC-CH, as well as innovators from Fortune 500 companies.
What sets us apart? Our unwavering commitment to your success. We're here for young people of color, like you, who are ready to step into their brilliance. Our approach is simple yet powerful: provide you with the skills, knowledge, career insights, and a supportive network that sets you up to soar.
We take pride in creating a learning environment that not only values diversity but celebrates it. Your cultural identity matters, and we're here to affirm and uplift it. As you journey towards your potential, we're right there with you, ensuring that the road is paved with opportunities and connections that matter.
Welcome to a place where empowerment is the norm, education is transformative, and your dreams are the compass guiding your way. Together, let's carve out a future that's as unique and vibrant as you are.
Navigating Together
Charting Your Course to Success
Centering Your Diversity
We get it – as you're gearing up to graduate high school, the big question of "What's next?" can feel pretty overwhelming. This can be especially true if you're a student of color facing unique challenges. But here's the awesome news: you don't have to tackle this journey solo. Welcome to our Cohort Model Advising!
Picture this: You're not
We get it – as you're gearing up to graduate high school, the big question of "What's next?" can feel pretty overwhelming. This can be especially true if you're a student of color facing unique challenges. But here's the awesome news: you don't have to tackle this journey solo. Welcome to our Cohort Model Advising!
Picture this: You're not starting this new chapter alone. Instead, you're stepping into a dynamic group of fellow seniors, each with their own backgrounds and aspirations. And guess what? You'll have a dedicated advisor and career coach right by your side. They're like your personal guides, here to provide expert advice and unwavering support.
Your cohort isn't just a group – it's your home base, your team, your cheerleaders. Throughout your time with us, you'll dive deep into the exciting world of college and career options. Together, with your cohort buddies, you'll chart your course through all the choices and possibilities. Whether it's discovering new paths or making tough decisions, your crew will be there to back you up every step of the way.
Let's create a close-knit community where you can excel, learn, and lay the foundation for your bright future – together!
Charting Your Course to Success
Charting Your Course to Success
Charting Your Course to Success
You're on the cusp of an exciting journey – the transition to college and career life. And guess what? We've got a game-changing plan designed just for you. Introducing our Customized College and Career Guidance Program!
Here's the scoop: We're all about giving students of color the tools they need for success. Our approach? A personalize
You're on the cusp of an exciting journey – the transition to college and career life. And guess what? We've got a game-changing plan designed just for you. Introducing our Customized College and Career Guidance Program!
Here's the scoop: We're all about giving students of color the tools they need for success. Our approach? A personalized experience that's tailored to your goals. Imagine engaging masterclass sessions that celebrate your cultural identity while diving deep into college prep, career exploration, STEM pathways, and even entrepreneurship.
But that's not all – you'll be part of an inspiring group setting that's all about lively discussions and shared insights. Think connecting with incredible leaders from education, business, and STEM fields who've walked the path you're about to embark on.
What's in it for you? Beyond knowledge, you'll gain confidence and connections that are pure gold. We're here to help you forge your own unique career pathway, armed with the skills and support you need to thrive.
Ready to make your mark? Join us on this exciting journey of self-discovery, learning, and empowerment – where your dreams take center stage!
How We Support You
Unlock Your Future with Forward Impact Academy!
Are you ready to embark on a journey of personal and professional growth? Welcome to Forward Impact Academy, where we're dedicated to guiding you towards a brighter future through our comprehensive array of services. As you prepare to apply for college and explore career options, our academy is here to provide you with valuable insights and resources that will empower you to navigate your own career pathway with confidence and success.
Monthly Bootcamp Workshops with a Dynamic Cohort
Join our dynamic cohorts online for engaging 2 to 3 day bootcamp workshops that will help you prepare for life after high school and cater to your career and educational aspirations. Collaborate, learn, and grow alongside like-minded peers who share your ambition.
Step Forward with Forward Impact Academy Today!
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to shape your future. Join Forward Impact Academy and let's embark on this transformative journey together. Your dreams are within reach – let's make them a reality! The cost of this pilot program is free of charge.
Register by October 14, 2023 at 6 pm EST to attend our "Free" October 15-17 Bootcamp Workshop!
Our Team
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for the North Carolina Health Education Center (also known as NC AHEC), Dr. Paris Andrew ’leads statewide DEI initiatives to advance Health Equity and efforts to recruit, train, and retain individuals from rural, low-income communities and traditionally underrepresented racial and ethn
As Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for the North Carolina Health Education Center (also known as NC AHEC), Dr. Paris Andrew ’leads statewide DEI initiatives to advance Health Equity and efforts to recruit, train, and retain individuals from rural, low-income communities and traditionally underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds into health professions programs and the healthcare workforce. Prior to NC AHEC, Paris served as Director of Partnerships and Engagement for Duke University's Talent Identification Program. She to advocate for diverse gifted children as a member of the Board of Directors for the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC).
Tammy Stevens, EdD Co-Founder
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
As a young child, Tammy was initially tracked into special education until an educator, advocated on her behalf. By second grade she was deemed talented in mathematics without additional resources or support. She had to navigate her pathway to Massachusetts Institute of Technology alone and believes every child should have access to lear
As a young child, Tammy was initially tracked into special education until an educator, advocated on her behalf. By second grade she was deemed talented in mathematics without additional resources or support. She had to navigate her pathway to Massachusetts Institute of Technology alone and believes every child should have access to learning experiences that expose them to multiple career paths. Tammy has dedicated her career to diversity and equity in talent development and recruitment. She also holds degrees from University of Maryland and University of Southern California.
Shawna L. Young, MBA Co-Founder
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
Shawna L. Young, MBA Co-Founder
Shawna identifies as a social entrepreneur who is committed to providing young people with from diverse communities with experiences that increase their academic and social capital. She holds degrees from Howard University, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). From teaching science
Shawna identifies as a social entrepreneur who is committed to providing young people with from diverse communities with experiences that increase their academic and social capital. She holds degrees from Howard University, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). From teaching science in North Carolina to leading nonprofit organizations at MIT, Duke University, and Scratch Foundation, she has focused her work on advancing equitable access to education and STEM fields.
Imani Sowah Marketing Manager
Paris Andrew, PhD, Co-Founder
Shawna L. Young, MBA Co-Founder
Imani is a passionate changemaker and avid photographer, who graduated from James Madison University and found her calling in community engagement and addressing important issues. Imani's unwavering dedication and creative communication skills make her an invaluable member of the organization. Her journey has shaped her into a resilient a
Imani is a passionate changemaker and avid photographer, who graduated from James Madison University and found her calling in community engagement and addressing important issues. Imani's unwavering dedication and creative communication skills make her an invaluable member of the organization. Her journey has shaped her into a resilient advocate for positive change, striving for a future where every voice is heard young people have guidance they need to achieve their full potential.