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Our Mission 

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Meet our founders!
Latoya Turner, Elise Bowen, and Eddie Hawkins 

To build culturally responsive literacy ecosystems that center Black history and educational excellence, strengthen reading proficiency and identity development, expand early college awareness, create sustainable pipelines to HBCUs and higher education, and support whole-child development through literacy, culture, and community—ensuring that students are academically prepared, culturally grounded, and empowered to thrive across educational pathways and life opportunities.

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Exposure to 
HBCUs

Community 
Support 

Outdoor 
Beautification 

Exposure to 
HBCUs

Build a Love for
Literacy

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We believe students deserve early exposure to HBCUs so they can see what is possible long before senior year. We believe academics must be prioritized and that literacy is the foundation for opportunity, confidence, and long-term success. We believe college and career readiness should begin early and be woven into everyday learning. We believe in the excellence, culture, and positivity of HBCUs. And we believe strong communities, mentors, and families are essential in helping students see their potential and walk boldly toward their future.

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Our Model 

Space Transformation at schools and community centers 

Monthly HBCU & Literacy Programming

Social-Emotional Learning 

Literacy Integration 

Community Engagement

Outdoor Gardening 

HBCU Exposure Experiences

New Partnership
Rockdale Academy  

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Community Clean Up Day 
April 11, 2026
12:00 PM-4:00 PM
South Avondale School 
636 Prospect Pl 
Cincinnati, OH 45229

College Decision Day  Photoshoot 
April 25, 2026
1:00 PM-4:00 PM
South Avondale School 
636 Prospect Pl 
Cincinnati, OH 45229

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Our South Avondale Middle School HBCU Literacy Hub features 24 full mural sidewalk paintings, outdoor beautification, and monthly HBCU and literacy events. We are currently working on Phase 3, which includes remodeling the courtyard area.

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