Submitted photo From left to right are Senior My Brother’s Keeper Fellow Justice Thomas, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Education and President of the University of the State of New York Dr. Betty A. Rosa, and Senior My Brother’s Keeper Fellow Eliel Collazo.

Two Dunkirk Secondary School Students, Eliel Collazo and Justice Thomas, participated in the New York State Education Department’s Annual Stand and Deliver: My Brother’s Keeper Fellows Leadership Workshop and Speaker Showcase.

The event was held in Albany last weekend. The students joined nearly 200 student leaders from across the state. Over three days, they experienced transformative leadership development and powerful storytelling.

They toured the University at Albany. There, they listened as current college students described their experiences. The students learned about the support programs available to help them succeed. This exposure gave them valuable insight into their potential futures and the pathways to higher education.

Additionally, they debated the future of Artificial Intelligence, a highly relevant topic in today’s educational landscape. They also met distinguished educational Commissioners and Board of Regents Members, including state Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa.

The students stood before their peers, educational leaders, and mentors.

John Escobar and Sgt. Frank Torain witnessed their mentees deliver powerful messages about achieving success and overcoming challenges.

The audience responded with pride and enthusiastic support. They also received messages from guest speakers who shared their journeys and stories of hope and resilience, including Michael Blake who is a former state Assemblyman.

The conference gave them invaluable opportunities to develop leadership skills. They built confidence in public speaking and connected with peers from across the state. The students heard from role models who have walked similar paths to support their goals and dreams.