OYLA Kicks-Off the 2025 / 2026 Academic Year

Celebrating Growth, Achievement, and Community: Highlights from the OYLA Student Appreciation & Open House Luncheon

On Saturday, September 7, 2025, the Omega Youth Leadership Academy (OYLA) hosted its annual Student Appreciation & Open House Luncheon at Bourgade Catholic High School in Phoenix, Arizona. The event brought together nearly 40 attendees, including students, alumni, educators, community supporters, and members of the OYLA Board of Directors — all gathered to celebrate student success, reflect on the Academy’s progress, and look ahead to an exciting new year of programming.

Opening the Doors with Gratitude and Purpose

The program began with warm and inspiring remarks from Dr. Carl A. Blunt, OYLA’s Executive Director, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the afternoon. His message was followed by Co-founder Dr. William Smith, who shared important facts and updates about OYLA’s mission, growth, and community impact.

Board President Bro. Marc Sutton then took the stage to provide key program highlights and progress updates. His message underscored the importance of mentorship, leadership, and community engagement in shaping the next generation of young men.

Honoring the Class of 2025

One of the most inspiring moments of the luncheon was the celebration of OYLA’s Class of 2025 — nine dedicated young men who successfully earned their high school diplomas and have each taken bold steps toward higher education. Their academic journeys reflect both personal discipline and the supportive environment fostered by OYLA.

Here’s where they’re headed next:

• Jonathan Bell (ASU Prep) – North Carolina A&T University

• Desmond Dickey (Homeschooled) – South Carolina State University

• DeVonte Jones (Brophy College Prep) – Morehouse College

• Joshua Robles (Crestview High School) – Central Arizona College

• Joseph Chapin (Crestview High School) – Gateway Community College

• Mason Gibbs (Williams Field High School) – Tuskegee University

• Adrian Robinson (Mission Heights High School) – Northern Arizona University

• Kristopher Scott (Millennium High School) – Cal Poly Pomona

• Federico Lujan (Crestview High School) – Grand Canyon University

We are proud of their accomplishments and excited to see how their journeys unfold.

Alumni Reflections and Youth Voices

Several OYLA alumni shared powerful reflections about the role OYLA has played in their personal and academic growth. Their testimonies served as a reminder of how transformative consistent mentorship and community support can be.

Current program participants also had the opportunity to speak, sharing what they’ve learned through OYLA and how the experience is shaping their paths as responsible, confident, and purpose-driven young men.

Looking Ahead: Programs, Workshops, and Inspiration

Board Secretary Bro. Marcus DelGado unveiled the 2025–2026 program and workshop calendar, highlighting new leadership development opportunities and enrichment activities. His presentation was followed by a truly motivating guest appearance from Bro. Ben Obomanu. A former NFL player turned practicing attorney, Obomanu spoke about his journey from Selma, Alabama, to the national football stage, and now to the courtroom in Washington State. His story was a testament to resilience, discipline, and the power of education.

Community Support and Acknowledgements

The luncheon also included a delicious meal provided by CJ’s Catering, and a heartfelt acknowledgment of those who make OYLA possible. Treasurer Bro. Andrew Wood thanked the many supporters, including:

• Omega Life Membership Foundation

• Intel

• Maricopa Community Colleges

• Gamma Mu Educational Services (GMES)

• ...and many other generous partners.

Their contributions ensure that OYLA can continue its mission of developing leadership, character, and academic excellence in young men of color.

Closing with Purpose

Bro. Marc Sutton, OYLA President, offered closing remarks that brought the afternoon full circle. He emphasized the Academy’s enduring commitment to youth leadership and expressed deep gratitude for the families, mentors, alumni, and community members who continue to support the vision.

This luncheon wasn’t just a celebration — it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to uplift, inspire, and invest in its youth. As OYLA looks ahead to a new year of programming, the foundation laid by moments like this ensures a future filled with purpose, excellence, and opportunity.