targeting students in the “academic middle” at all Madison high schools and several middle schools.

Ogechi Emechebee:

Once accepted, students focus on techniques that will prepare them for college and beyond such as organization, writing, reading and self-advocacy. The program also takes students on college campus tours and works to place them in paid summer internships.

Johnson said Thursday that donors have given $1.4 million in scholarships for the students.

“This celebration is about you,” he told the students. “The community is here to support you and we’ll support you throughout your journey. You will persist and succeed.”

The keynote speaker was Gloria Ladson-Billings, UW-Madison’s Kellner Family Chair in Urban Education. Her speech was delivered using several phrases millennial youth today use such as “turn up,” “stay woke,” and “take several seats.” She advised students to “turn up” for class by showing up on time and taking their studies seriously.