NYSED Commissioner Betty A. Rosa

On Friday, March 21, BCC proudly hosted the New York State Education Department’s(NYSED) official launch event for My Sister’s Keeper (MSK), a program aimed to empower young women of color in the STEM fields.  With approximately 600 students representing 52 school districts filling Gould Memorial Library, the energy level was electric as NYSED pledged its commitment to build on the foundation established by the My Brother’s Keeper program and provide financial resources for local MSK programs across the State. 

 A slate of powerful female leaders in NY education delivered inspirational remarks, including Deputy NYSED Commissioner Angelique Johnson-Dingle; Regent Aramina Vega Ferrer; State Senator and State Senate Education Committee Chair Shelley Mayer; NYSED Commissioner Betty A. Rosa; Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson as Keynote Speaker.  

 Deputy Commissioner Johnson Dingle kicked off the event, saying the launch marked “a significant milestone in the State of New York – a day my daughters and all young women across the State Can take pride in.” 

 Chancellor Lester Young and BCC Vice President for Advancement, Communications and External Relations Dr. Eddy Bayardelle also provided remarks, along with several young women MSK participants who shared their personal journeys. Groups from the Young Women’s Leadership School Chorus and the Talent Unlimited High School Strings Quartet presented unforgettable music performances showcasing the talent and promise of NYC’s youth.  

 One of the student speakers summed up the event perfectly.  She said, “MSK is not just a program; it’s a movement. It’s about creating spaces for young women of color…It’s about mentorship, leadership and opportunity so that every young woman has the support she needs to thrive.”