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- Wed, Apr 16 at 9:48 AM
April 2025 | Volume 62
Essential Insights this Quarter
Executive Director's Corner
As spring blossoms around us, we are reminded of the beauty of renewal and the incredible potential for growth. On March 8, we witnessed this firsthand at the 33rd Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC). Students gathered, eager to learn, connect, and embrace the power of leadership. Their energy, curiosity, and passion for change reaffirmed why we do this work—because investing in young minds shapes the future.
Spring is not only a season—it’s a symbol. AAYLC represents that same spirit of transformation. Like the first green shoots after winter’s chill, our students are stepping boldly into new opportunities. They’re shattering ceilings, redefining what’s possible, and finding the courage to speak their truths. The conference may have ended, but its ripple effect continues in every choice they make, every challenge they embrace, and every dream they dare to chase.
As we look ahead, let’s not let this momentum fade. Let’s nurture it. Let’s commit to making 2025 a year of action, advocacy, and impact—for our students, our communities, and our shared future.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. Together, we’re not just witnessing change—we’re making it.
Sincerely,
Debra Johnson
Executive Director
Student Voices: What AAYLC Means to Me
“Failures make successful leaders. AAYLC has taught me to never give up and to use my failures as fuel to succeed!” — DeShaun, Widefield High School, 12th Grade
“AAYLC allowed me to see the world differently and realize that I can do anything regardless of the circumstances.” — Olivia, Cheyenne Mountain High School, 12th Grade
Introducing the Crown Scholar Program
At AAYLC, we believe in celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and leadership of our youth. Beginning April 1, we’re excited to introduce the Crown Scholar Program—a fresh evolution of our Student of the Month initiative! This new name reflects the prestige and excellence of the students we recognize—those who wear their dedication, hard work, and impact like a crown.
Each month, selected Crown Scholars will receive public recognition, a special gift card prize, and exclusive AAYLC swag. In addition, honorees will be invited to a quarterly dinner with AAYLC leadership, providing a unique opportunity to connect with mentors and fellow achievers.
We’re proud to continue celebrating the remarkable achievements of our students and to highlight their inspiring journeys. Join us in honoring the next generation of changemakers!
Colorado's School Funding Reform
Colorado is set to reform its school funding system. Two state-commissioned studies released in January indicate that the state needs to invest approximately $4 billion more than its current budget to ensure students receive a high-quality education. According to Colorado Public Radio, the state has been lagging in education funding, currently allocating $11,317 per pupil. However, Colorado is now taking proactive steps to increase funding and revamp the outdated funding formula that has hindered progress for decades.
Read More About Funding Reforms Recognizing Student Excellence
Do you know a standout student who deserves to be recognized? The AAYLC Crown Scholar award honors exceptional students who excel in academics, sports, arts, or community service—leaders who inspire those around them. The application and nomination process are quick and easy, so don’t miss the chance to spotlight a deserving student. Let’s uplift and reward the next generation of leaders! Click here
April 2025 - Kiara Dodson
Kiara Dodson is a student at Fountain-Fort Carson High School with a strong passion for law enforcement. Her dream career involves earning a law and justice degree, attending the police academy, and eventually becoming a police officer. After three years of service, she plans to return for further training and work with a police K9, knowing that both she and the K9 will need rigorous preparation before they can begin their work together.
March 2025 - Alex Beasley
Alex Beasley is a senior at Lewis Palmer High School, where he has maintained an impressive 3.8 GPA. He has a deep passion for psychology and dreams of becoming a therapist. Alex's ultimate goal is to start a non-profit that provides mental health support, particularly in underprivileged communities. His desire to pursue this path stems from his family’s involvement in volunteer work and his own personal experiences with community organizations that focus on mental health advocacy.
February 2025 - Moziah Johnson-El
Moziah is a dedicated and ambitious freshman at Rampart High School, where he has maintained a GPA of 3.5. With a passion for both sports and leadership, Moziah has set his sights on a future in either sports management or law, depending on which path proves to be more accessible. He is currently exploring his options for higher education and is considering two prestigious schools: Howard University, one of the top HBCUs, and the University of Michigan, which offers both a strong orchestra program and a competitive volleyball team.
Guidance and Growth
Matters of the Mind - Seasonal Shifts, Lasting Wellness
By Alice Miles, MSW/SWC, Psychotherapist and Adoption Placement Supervisor
Spring is often associated with excitement for change around our natural world and is often seen as a time of renewal. Time shifts forward and our days get longer, flowers start blooming, and the weather warms up. However, with these changes come shifts in mood, energy, and overall mental health that can affect students, parents, and educators alike.
Change, no matter where it is, in the environment, schedules, or personal life—creates stress and a new need for information and predictability. Seasonal change often affects us in ways we are unaware of. In spring, the increased daylight and fluctuating temperatures may alter sleep patterns and longer days can mean more time (perceived and real) spent on homework, sports, or social activities.
Learn More 
Pikes Peak State College to Launch New Degree Programs
Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) has announced plans to offer Associate of Engineering Science degree paths in aerospace, civil, industrial, mechatronics, mechanical, and general engineering. These new programs are designed for students intending to transfer to institutions such as UCCS, CSU-Pueblo, CU-Boulder, CSU-Fort Collins, and the Colorado School of Mines.
This initiative aims to equip students with the skills needed for careers in the STEM field. To support the launch of these degrees in the fall of 2025, PPSC is upgrading its facilities and making necessary renovations.
Read More About PPSC Degrees Did You Know?
Students who participate in leadership programs are twice as likely to attend college compared to their peers. Why? Because leadership experiences build confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of purpose—qualities that help students thrive in higher education and beyond.
Together, We Made Magic: AAYLC 2025 Was a Success!
We are beyond grateful to everyone who played a role in making the 33rd Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference an unforgettable experience! To our incredible students and their village—parents, guardians, and mentors—thank you for showing up and investing in the future.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, vendors, and presenters whose generosity, expertise, and passion helped create a day filled with inspiration and learning. We also extend our deepest appreciation to our dedicated volunteers, whose hard work and commitment ensured that everything ran smoothly.
Because of you, we continue to empower, educate, and uplift the next generation of leaders. We couldn’t do this without you, and we look forward to growing together in the years to come. Thank you for being part of the AAYLC family!
Together We Thrive
Honoring Black Excellence at UCCS
On Friday, April 11, several AAYLC Board Members and our Executive Director attended the 6th Annual Black Excellence Gala at UCCS. This powerful event celebrated student achievements with the theme “The Royal Reminder”—honoring our roots and the royalty we carry within.
Congratulations to our immediate past Board President, Nicole Frazier, for being one of the night’s honorees! We’re proud to celebrate her continued impact and leadership.
It was an inspiring evening of awards, performances, and community pride!
Thank You to Our Amazing Sponsors
We couldn’t have done it without you!
To all of our sponsors—thank you for standing with us and supporting the 33rd Annual African American Youth Leadership Conference. Your generosity helped create an unforgettable experience for our students—one filled with inspiration, empowerment, and the belief that their dreams are within reach.
Because of your support, young leaders walked away feeling seen, valued, and motivated to take their next steps boldly. You didn’t just fund an event—you helped spark futures.
From all of us at AAYLC, thank you for believing in our mission and in the incredible potential of our youth. We’re truly grateful to have you as part of our community.
Featured Partner - Youth Documentary Academy (YDA)
At the African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC), we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire change—and no one embodies this mission better than our incredible partner, the Youth Documentary Academy (YDA).
YDA is more than a filmmaking program; it’s a movement that empowers high school students from underserved and underrepresented communities in Colorado Springs to tell their own stories through the lens of documentary film. Over an intensive ten-week program, students ages 14 to 20 are immersed in every aspect of the creative process—from brainstorming ideas rooted in personal and cultural identity to directing, editing, and producing powerful films that spark dialogue and drive change. We are proud to collaborate with YDA as they help shape the next generation of storytellers, leaders, and changemakers.
Learn more about YDA by clicking here.
AAYLC | aaylc-co.org
African American Youth Leadership Conference | P.O. Box 76408 | Colorado Springs, CO 80970 US
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