BDI Announces Inaugural Bending the Arc Student Cohort
- Francis Garcia
- Oct 1, 2024
- 2 min read
The Boxser Diversity Initiative (BDI) is thrilled to announce the selection of 24 high school students for the inaugural cohort of our Bending the Arc program. The unique educational initiative, made possible by generous funding from Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation, invites students to embark on a journey through the history of the Civil Rights Movement and explore its lasting relevance in shaping a more equitable society.
Chosen from a competitive pool of applicants, the students represent 11 schools across Sarasota and Manatee Counties and share a passion for social justice and history. The program officially began with a kick-off and orientation meeting on October 27, where the cohort gathered to meet their peers and learn about the journey ahead.
“This is the start of something truly transformative,” said Julie Matus, executive director of the BDI. “Our inaugural Bending the Arc cohort is an inspiring group of young people who are eager to learn, grow, and make an impact. We are honored to guide them on this journey of discovery and empowerment.”
Over the next five months, the students will attend BDI’s public Discussion Series and participate in local field trips, group discussions, and guided readings under the mentorship of lead educator Edna Sherrell, BDI director of learning. The program will culminate in March 2025 with a weeklong, all-expenses-paid trip to Alabama, where students will visit iconic civil rights landmarks in Selma, Montgomery, and Birmingham.
BDI expresses its deep gratitude to Barancik Foundation for its support in making Bending the Arc possible. The program exemplifies BDI’s commitment to fostering understanding and inclusivity through educational initiatives that inspire action and cultivate empathy.
Learn more about Bending the Arc.
About Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation
The Charles and Margery Barancik family has long believed in the power of philanthropy to shape our world and enrich the lives of all people. It was the expression of this belief that led them in 2014 to establish Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation—a private, family foundation located in Sarasota, Florida. Barancik Foundation creates initiatives and awards grants in Sarasota and beyond in the areas of education, humanitarian causes, arts and culture, the environment, and medical research. For more information, visit BarancikFoundation.org
Greg Luberecki, Chief Communications and Learning Officer, Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation GLuberecki@BarancikFoundation.org
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