A Better Chance (ABC) of Andover hosted its Annual Scholar Celebration on June 1, honoring the academic progress and personal accomplishments of students enrolled in its program. The event brought together families, educators, and community members to mark the conclusion of another year of the national educational initiative, which places high-achieving students of color at public schools in high-performing communities.
The evening highlighted the continued efforts of ABC of Andover to provide educational opportunities and support systems for students from underserved backgrounds. In her first year as Executive Director, Lenis Perez served as the evening’s emcee. Resident Director Sandra Hilario presented each student with a personalized “Superlative Award,” offering brief remarks that acknowledged the strengths and contributions of each scholar.
A centerpiece of the evening was the recognition of graduating senior Janay Cox, who will attend Brown University this fall. Her academic advisor, Delia Vallejo Welch, spoke about Cox’s dedication to her studies, while her host family, the Joyners, presented a slideshow and shared personal reflections from her four years in the program. Cox’s family attended the event and offered thanks to ABC for its role in her education. She concluded the program with a speech about her experiences and the challenges she faced during her time in Andover.
Also present was Jayne Jones, a guidance counselor at Andover High School, who has worked closely with ABC Scholars throughout their academic careers.
The annual event serves as a milestone for both students and supporters, reinforcing ABC of Andover’s ongoing mission to promote access to quality education and encourage leadership among students historically underrepresented in academic institutions.