MBK Program Coordinator Greg Joyner, graduating seniors, U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Treat Williams, Yonkers Superintendent Aníbal Soler Jr., and MBK Yonkers Executive Director Dr. Jason Baez.
A Powerful Gathering Honoring Legacy, Reflection, and Encouragement as Students Prepare for Their Next Chapter
My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Yonkers proudly hosted its Annual Senior Sendoff on June 24, honoring 25 graduating MBK seniors from Yonkers Public Schools. The powerful celebration of accomplishment, reflection, and future aspirations was led by the voices and presence of the students themselves. The event brought together students, families, educators, and community leaders for a meaningful gathering focused on legacy and next steps.
Yonkers Public Schools Superintendent Aníbal Soler, Jr. reflected on the importance of celebrating the graduates’ growth and leadership.
“Our MBK graduates have consistently shown what focus, leadership, and unwavering support can achieve,” he said. “We’re immensely proud of the young men they’ve become and incredibly excited to witness the impact they’ll continue to make as they step into college, careers, and leadership roles within their communities.”
Executive Director of MBK Yonkers Dr. Jason Baez added:
“It is truly inspiring to witness these young men transition into their next phase of life with such promise and determination. Their journey embodies the core mission of MBK Yonkers, fostering growth, leadership, and a profound sense of brotherhood, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements and the bright futures they are building.”
The ceremony featured a symbolic Libation Ceremony led by MBK Program Coordinator Mr. Greg Joyner and the 2025 MBK Fellows. Fellows poured water into the “Plant of Life” to honor mentors, family, and personal milestones, offering gratitude and reflection throughout the affirmation “Ashe,” a Yoruba word meaning “we agree” and symbolizing strength in brotherhood.
MBK Yonkers alumnus and U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Treat Williams spoke about how the program gave him the mindset and foundation to pursue high-level goals, including Navy SEAL training. He credited MBK Yonkers with instilling a sense of purpose and self-discipline, and encouraged graduates to carry that same focus into their next chapter.
The Senior Sendoff concluded with the MBK Pledge, recited by the graduates in unison as a declaration of commitment to brotherhood, purpose, and leadership: “I am My Brother’s Keeper.”
This celebration is part of MBK Yonkers’ ongoing commitment to supporting students through the six milestones of the My Brother’s Keeper framework, with the Senior Sendoff specifically aligned with Milestones 3 and 4: graduating from high school and completing post-secondary education or training. Yonkers Public Schools remains one of only four MBK Model Communities recognized by the Obama Foundation for its leadership in improving outcomes for young men of color — and proudly holds the highest on-time graduation rate for young men of color in New York State.
About My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Yonkers
My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Yonkers empowers young men of color by providing mentorship, educational support, and leadership opportunities. In partnership with Yonkers Public Schools and local organizations, MBK Yonkers has helped the district achieve the highest on-time graduation rate for young men of color in New York State. This commitment has earned MBK Yonkers the distinction of being one of only four MBK Model Communities nationwide recognized by the Obama Foundation.
MBK Yonkers helps students reach six key milestones from early education to career readiness. Through its MBK Fellows and mentorship programs, MBK Yonkers fosters equity and opportunity, ensuring all young people can succeed.
For more information, visit yonkerspublicschools.org/mbk.
