News

Thrive Scholars Responds to Supreme Court Ruling on Race-Conscious Admissions

Published

2 years ago

July 16, 2023

LOS ANGELES /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Supreme Court has ruled that colleges are no longer allowed to use race as a criterion for admissions, stripping college admissions officers of one of their most effective interventions for making their campuses the types of diverse learning institutions they know will best prepare all students for lifelong success.

Thrive Scholars, a national nonprofit that for 20 years has supported high-achieving, underrepresented students of color get into and graduate from top colleges to help them find success in careers that lead to economic mobility, believes this decision will exacerbate diversity challenges on campus, make it harder for talented students of color to achieve their dreams, hinder their sense of belonging, and send the wrong signal to students currently on campuses across the country.

“Before I was connected with Thrive Scholars, I was limited by what I was able to see and didn’t have exposure to the opportunities that were truly out there,” said Venezia Garza, a Thrive Scholar and college student in her junior year at Princeton. “Within school, I struggled to feel a sense of belonging as the goals I had for myself of pursuing higher education were out of place and foreign to most. Attending my first Summer Academy as a Thrive Scholar completely broke down the limiting perceptions of myself and introduced me to a brilliant community of students who looked like myself and had lived through similar experiences. Summer Academy prepared me with the intellectual tools I now use to find success at Princeton.”

As Justice Sotomayor references in her dissent, one main reason colleges use race as a factor in college admissions is to address the opportunity gap – the fact that while talent is equally distributed, opportunity is not. Many under-resourced high schools serve student populations primarily comprised of students of color and do not provide them the opportunities they need to develop the credentials selective colleges are looking for in admissions. For example, more than half of the public high schools where Black and Latino students make up the majority of enrollment do not offer AP Calculus – a gateway course to many top selective colleges.

This understanding forms the foundation for Thrive Scholar’s programming. By providing the academic support and access to opportunity in high school that more privileged students take for granted to a broader, more diverse range of students, we help talented students develop the credentials, skills, and experiences top colleges are looking for.

“We start with our Summer Academy, an academically intensive program over two summers in the 11th and 12th grade where our Scholars attend a daily three-hour calculus class and a three-hour college writing course every day for six weeks each summer, taught by college professors on a college campus,” said Tyra Anderson-Montina, Chief Program Officer at Thrive Scholars. “The data on this intervention is overwhelming. Over 40 percent of our Scholars who participate in Thrive Scholars’ Summer Academy attend Ivy Plus colleges, with 85 percent attending the Top 50 schools.”

Students who participate in Thrive Scholars Summer Academy statistically go on to have a higher college GPA, are 10% more likely to graduate, and are 33% more likely to persist in STEM than students of all demographic backgrounds who attend their same top schools. The data is clear – these students have the talent and determination to succeed; they just need the same access to opportunity and skills building that others take for granted.

“While the laws may change, our values will not. At Thrive Scholars, we believe high-achieving students of color belong in higher ed institutions and diverse college campuses are important,” said Steve Stein, CEO of Thrive Scholars. “We will work with our academic partners to comply with all laws as we advance our mission in this new environment. We believe our mission is more relevant and vital now than ever before and will continue to support underserved talent in their academic and career journeys.”

About Thrive Scholars

Thrive Scholars is a national nonprofit that for 20 years has worked hard to help high-achieving, underrepresented students of color from economically disadvantaged backgrounds get into and graduate from top colleges equipped to achieve their full career potential. Thrive Scholars uses data to develop programming that translates to Scholar success through a full suite of academic preparation, mentorship, social-emotional, financial, and career counseling to close the opportunity gap.

SOURCE Thrive Scholars

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge

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Nissan Reduces Pricing for 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder: A Commitment to Value?

Published

5 hours ago

April 6, 2025

Rod Washington

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.

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Automotive

The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

Exciting news! The Nissan Frontier has been crowned the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” at the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge! Manufactured in Canton and powered by cutting-edge technology, this remarkable vehicle showcases top-notch craftsmanship and innovation. Proud to celebrate our local talent! #NissanFrontier #CoolestThing #MississippiMakers #Innovation

Published

23 hours ago

April 5, 2025

Rod Washington

2025 Nissan Frontier. Image Credit: Nissan Motors

CANTON, Miss. – The Nissan Frontier has earned the prestigious title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by winning the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge, an event organized by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. This accolade highlights the Frontier’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive automotive market.

Manufactured at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility in Canton, Mississippi, the Frontier showcases the dedication and expertise of the skilled workforce in the region. Each vehicle is meticulously assembled, combining quality engineering with contemporary design to meet the needs of today’s drivers.

Powering the Frontier are robust engines built at Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee, further adding to the vehicle’s impressive performance and reliability. The collaboration between these two locations reflects Nissan’s commitment to supporting local economies while producing high-quality vehicles that American customers have come to love.

The recognition of the Nissan Frontier as the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” is not just a win for Nissan; it underscores the rich manufacturing heritage of the state and the remarkable talent within its workforce. As Nissan continues to innovate and evolve, the Frontier stands as a testament to what can be achieved when craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

With this accolade, the Nissan Frontier solidifies its place as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, proving that great things can indeed come from Mississippi.

Link to the Nissan Press Release: The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

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amusement and theme parks

Six Flags Magic Mountain Bids Farewell to Superman: Escape from Krypton

Published

1 day ago

April 5, 2025

Rebecca Washington

In a bittersweet announcement, Six Flags Magic Mountain has confirmed the permanent closure of Superman: Escape from Krypton, once celebrated as the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. The decision comes after the ride, which has been out of operation since September, faced an insurmountable challenge due to a “lethal dose of kryptonite”—or in less whimsical terms, the unavailability of necessary parts for refurbishment.

Magic Mountain President Jeff Harris shared insights with the Orange County Register, explaining that the ride was initially taken offline for routine maintenance. However, as the needed components did not materialize in a timely manner, the park deemed it more practical to close the iconic coaster permanently rather than leave enthusiasts in limbo.

Superman: Escape from Krypton was renowned for its thrilling experience, featuring two L-shaped tracks that soared upwards, promising an adrenaline rush like no other. Riders would be catapulted from a standstill to a blistering 100 mph in just seven seconds, reaching heights of 415 feet. It was a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers visiting the park.

As for the future of the now vacant queue, station, and launch track, Six Flags has yet to announce any specific plans. However, fans of the park can take solace in the fact that the nearby Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom, which shares its tower with the Superman coaster, will remain operational and is set to reopen next month.

The closure of Superman has sparked a wave of sentiment among roller coaster enthusiasts, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where many have expressed their disappointment. For numerous fans, Superman was more than just a ride; it was a highlight of their amusement park experience.

Despite this loss, Magic Mountain still boasts an impressive lineup of 19 roller coasters, maintaining its title as the amusement park with the highest number of coasters in the world. Looking ahead, a new roller coaster is slated to debut in 2026, which will restore the park’s count back to 20.

Originally opened as Superman: The Escape in 1997, the coaster underwent a significant transformation in 2011, being rebranded as Superman: Escape from Krypton. This revamp flipped the ride vehicles, allowing thrill-seekers to launch backward while facing towards the ground, enhancing the heart-pounding experience of the descent.

Even though Superman has left the tracks, fans can still encounter the Man of Steel in other forms within the park, including on the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis dark ride and through character meet-and-greet opportunities.

As the park moves forward, the memory of Superman: Escape from Krypton will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many who experienced its exhilarating ride. Magic Mountain continues to be a haven for roller coaster enthusiasts, promising exciting adventures for years to come.

Author

Rebecca Washington

Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington View all posts