Press Release:
(Left to right) Dressed to impress: Trevon Barrett-Little, Nazier McCall, BBB Foundation Director Marquita McCully, Men of Success Coach Jahmar Bradby, DeAndre Daniels, Jaquise Vaughn Holliday, and Semaj Chase in front of Men’s Wearhouse with their new outfits in hand.
Washington, N.C.- For Valentine's Day, the Bam, Books & Brotherhood Foundation (BBB Foundation) treated the Men of Success program at Beaufort County Community College (Beaufort CCC) to a visit that combined mentorship, encouragement, and generosity, resulting in personal growth and a
"glow up" as part of their Diamond Kut University.
Kevin Graves, executive director of the BBB Foundation, fired up the Men of Success group, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, confidence, and professional growth. His words resonated with the students, who have career ambitions that include zoology, criminal justice, and business.
"If you're starting at zero, and you're competing against people whose grandfather, father, and great-grandfather already had money, already had law practices, already had engineering firms, already had medical pharmaceutical companies, you have to be disciplined enough to play catch up," Graves said, highlighting the challenges of economic disparity and the necessity of hard work and discipline.
He further emphasized the importance of discipline and sacrifice, stating,
"If you sacrifice long enough, if you're disciplined long enough, the reward will come. If you follow everything that the rest of the world is doing, it's going to be hard for you."
Following the speech, Marquita McCulley from the BBB Foundation presented each participant with a new pair of sneakers before taking them on a suit shopping experience to Men's Wearhouse, where they had up to $600 to spend on suits and attire. The students also visited Barnes & Noble to pick out two books each, further reinforcing the foundation's commitment to education and self-improvement. The day concluded with a shared meal at Red Lobster, where students had the opportunity to engage in deeper discussions with the foundation's representatives in a supportive and encouraging setting.
Additionally, the BBB Foundation donated $1,000 to supplement Beaufort CCC's Clothes Closet, which provides students with suits and hygiene products to ensure they are prepared for professional and academic opportunities.
According to McCully,
"Diamond Kut University is the modern era of the Magic School Bus, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, and the Reading Rainbow in real-life time. We inspire to educate, invest in community, empower the being in the mirror and spread joy."
"This experience was about more than material gifts-it was about investing in the future of these young men," said Graves.
"Our foundation is committed to uplifting students by providing both tangible resources and the mentorship they need to thrive."
The BBB Foundation, dedicated to enhancing the lives of youth through education, literacy, and personal development, continues to make a lasting impact by fostering leadership and self-confidence among students. More information about their mission and initiatives can be found at www.thebbbfoundation.org.
The Men of Success program at Beaufort CCC is designed to support male students by providing mentorship, professional development, and academic guidance. Through partnerships like this, the program continues to empower students with the skills and confidence necessary for their future success.
About Bam, Books & Brotherhood Foundation
The Bam, Books & Brotherhood Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting the educational and personal growth of young men. By providing literacy programs, mentorship, and resources, the foundation aims to cultivate leadership and success in underserved communities.
For more information about the Men of Success program at Beaufort County Community College, please contact jahmar.bradby@beaufortccc.edu.
- Attila Nemecz
- Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator
- Beaufort County Community College
- 5337 U.S. Highway 264 East
- Washington, N.C. 27889
- Ph: 252-940-6387
- Cell: 252-940-8672
- attila.nemecz@beaufortccc.edu
