The White House has recognized ten individuals from across the country as White House "Champions of Change" for extracurricular enrichment, after-school, and summer programming for marginalized girls, including girls of color. Bridgette M. King, an instructor in the College of Arts and Sciences at Argosy University, Online Programs, was one of the ten women honored.
These individuals were selected by the White House for their leadership in developing and supporting high-quality after-school and extracurricular programs that create opportunities for girls from marginalized communities so that all young people can reach their full potential.
Through the initiative on "Advancing Equity for Women and Girls of Color," The White House Council on Women and Girls has worked across the federal government to identify key obstacles facing marginalized girls, including girls of color, and highlight innovative solutions to those obstacles. One key issue that girls from marginalized communities often face is access to extracurricular programs and summer enrichment activities that allow them to become stronger students, leaders, and citizens. For girls to reach their full potential, they need safe and nurturing community and school environments where they can learn, grow and thrive within the school day hours and beyond. Extracurricular programs enrich their understanding of the arts and the sciences, reinforce the skills learned in school, promote health and wellness, and foster their confidence and leadership.
The event featured remarks by White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett and CEO and Founder of Black Girls Rock! Beverly Bond. White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett said, "Learning shouldn't end when the school bell rings, so neither should our work to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. That's why all young people, including marginalized girls and girls of color, deserve to have access to great after-school and summer experiences that engage their curiosity and help them grow. Our Champions of Change are doing just that in their communities, and they're creating a brighter future for the next generation in the process. We're proud to lift their work at the White House, and hope other local leaders emulate the extraordinary examples they've set."
The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities. The event was streamed on the White House website.
Bridgette King serves as executive director and head coach of the Lady Panthers Girls Basketball Association (LPGBA) and is a 2016 recipient of the President's Council Community Leadership Award. Bridgette helped to create a fitness and nutrition program for LPGBA athletes to teach lifelong proper nutritional habits, as well as, how to stay physically fit and healthy as lifelong goals. Bridgette's coaching has helped her girls, especially those of color, to see their potential and understand how basketball can teach them important life skills.
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