College Bound’s 19th Annual End of the Year Celebration was held at Howard University's Blackburn Center on Thursday, May 27th. This spectacular event recognized the achievements of the Academic MentoringProgram participants as well as community leaders. The celebration was also an opportunity for graduating seniors to gain insight into what the future will hold for them as College Bound alumni and rising college freshmen. Over $60,000 in scholarships was distributed amongst the program participants and alumni.

Alumna Monique Twyman, a rising senior at Delaware State University, offered greetings from the College Bound alumni. Mr. Michael Blake, Deputy Associate Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, gave an inspiring message to the audience about not succumbing to the world's perceptions of “who you are.” He instructed the audience, specifically the graduating seniors, to continue on their chosen path,pursue their goalsand defy the odds. Mr. Blake reminded them thatyour age should not be a limitation, but an opportunity to surprise the world with their talent and drive.

Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, Director of Research, Public Policy, and Information at the National Council of Negro Women, accepted the College Bound 2010 Community Leadership Award in memory of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height and Ms. Marjorie Arrington of Dow Lohnes, LLC was awarded the 2010 College Bound Hall of Fame Award.

The event concluded with the Executive Director, Kenneth Ward, challenging the College Bound family to continue supporting the organization in its mission of “making college a reality” as they head into their 20th year.