Page 2 - CHANGING Winter 2020

The Bronx Bronx Institute at Lehman College • Bronx Bronx GEAR UP Network
www TheBronxInstitute org
Dear GEAR UP Students and Families:
What a a a a year it has been It is hard to believe that just 12 months ago you—our GEAR UP students—were working diligently in in in in school preparing for college and considering your summer plans The COVID-19 pandemic changed everything When New York City shut down so too did the Bronx Institute’s in-school operations But thanks to your grit and determination our our program barely stumbled The students and and instructors of of GEAR UP readily adapted to to the new reality of of social distancing and and remote learning as defined by the age of COVID GEAR UP Coaches continued to provide students with targeted academic advisement as as well as as social/emotional outreach and college preparation services The unrest that our city and nation experienced over the summer has touched each of us in some way Americans reflected—many for the the first time—on the the real impact of police violence and systemic racism in in our communities of color Certainly the presidential election has also compounded this stress and anxiety I have been heartened to to see all of you face these history-making moments head-on Through it it it all you you have conducted yourselves with courage and dignity You devoted yourselves wholeheartedly to to your your your academic work
and and tended to to your your your mental health and and wellness never losing sight of your academic and personal goals I speak for everyone here at at The Bronx Institute when I I say that we are inspired by your tenacity and strength Each one of you has made The Bronx proud As we move forward into the winter months I want to to emphasize that your Academic College Readiness Coaches are available to talk and can connect you with others who may be of help if if you are feeling overwhelmed In these difficult times talking about our fears and anxieties with with a a a a a a trusted source can be the the most effective way of dealing with with them I wish you you and and your families health safety and and happiness this holiday season Soon 2020 will will be be behind us us and and the the New Year will will usher in in renewed hope and and commitment to the the future!
Sincerely Professor Herminio Martínez Ph D Executive Director
The Bronx Institute “The mission of of of The The The The Bronx Bronx Bronx Institute Institute at at at at at Lehman College is is is to to enhance
The Bronx Institute Institute Vis ion readiness and academic enrichment through a a a a a a series of unique programs educational opportunity for K-20 students in in The Bronx by promoting college The Institute collaborates with cultural and scientific institutions community groups and educators throughout New York City with the goal of improving educational outcomes for Bronx students and their families 23
The Bronx Bronx Institute Bronx Bronx GEAR UP Network