News - Voices of Promise: An Oral History of the Neighborhood Academic Initiative

Persevering through COVID-19 One of the most challenging periods in NAI’s history began in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic prevented in-person classes and meetings. But some students faced far deeper struggles than keeping up with their studies. NAI staff saw an unprecedented rise in the demand for services from students and their families. The coronavirus also claimed the lives of three NAI parents, who in each case was the family’s primary breadwinner. GARRISON: NAI continued because of the amazing staff that pivoted within days to continue the program entirely online. Staff focused on helping our scholars through one of the most challenging and disruptive periods of their lives. The team provided mobile hotspots as well as food, mental health resources and even in some cases helped pay for funerals. THOMAS-BARRIOS: Our staff are beautiful people with beautiful hearts. They took on a huge commitment during the pandemic. JACQUEZ: It was difficult to join NAI during the pandemic because of everything going on. But I kept my focus on the main goal which was to succeed and get to college. I was going to be prepared. By my sophomore year, we were able to transition from Zoom and meet our teachers and others in our cohort in person. I was able to form what I hope will be lifelong friendships. Motivated for the journey NAI is operated by USC Educational Partnerships in the division of University Relations. In NAI’s early days, teachers and principals hand-picked students for the program. In NAI’s early days, teachers and principals hand-picked students for the program. Now, as word has spread about the success and rigor of the program and demand has grown, students who live in the neighborhoods closest to USC’s University Park and Health Sciences campuses can apply online and are chosen by a selection committee. The majority of the program’s scholars become first-generation college students. JACQUEZ: When I was a student at El Sereno Middle School and Magnet Center, I knew NAI was a program that could help me eventually become college-bound. It was a big deal and so competitive because everyone wanted to be a part of it. THOMAS-BARRIOS: Fifth-grade teachers let us know that they tell students about the program — before we even get there! And the students tell their parents. We ignite the imaginations of the kids, and something just touches the parents in their hearts. AMBROZEVICIUS: My son Leo was nominated by his fifth-grade teacher, and he pretty much started the process on his own. He started doing his essays, he filled out the application, he wrote everything he needed to write, all on his own. He presented it to us at the point where he needed to have his interview. It just surprised us. We took the time, we did some research, and it is such an amazing program. McFADDEN: Students come in ambitious and goal-oriented. They are willing to put the hard work in. An enduring legacy Each spring, a location at the University Park Campus is transformed into an elegant venue for an annual gala to celebrate the culmination of NAI scholars’ seven-year journey and the beginning of their university life. Although long retired, Solomon tries to never miss the gala; this year she was seated at a prime table. She enjoyed a steady stream of visits from Trojan attendees who were eager to greet the education trailblazer to whom Garrison later paid tribute during his remarks. SOLOMON: I felt amazed at the size of the crowd and appreciative of the NAI grads and their proud families. The presence of so many hardworking staff, administrators and civic leaders reflected the high value placed on what the program has become. JACQUEZ: [At our gala], my heart was filled with so much joy because I was thinking about everything I worked hard for. I got to the end goal. Others also reflected on the influence NAI has had on the lives of students and their families over the years. McFADDEN: I’ve taught everything from seventh grade through 12th grade. I’ve seen the impact of the program not just in the kids, but on campus and in the community. It was a culture changer at our school. We have a college-going culture now. The level of rigor that students expect in their classes is very high. Teaching in the NAI program is the high point of my career. I’ve taught children of students that I had, and so the impact has been very strong, very deep. McMORROW: These young people are so extraordinary, and their parents make such sacrifices. Not to be too corny, but it’s what makes this country great. They are truly the future of the country. THOMAS-BARRIOS: It’s amazing that for more than three decades, USC has reached so deeply into the community that surrounds both campuses. It’s such a selfless act for a major university to be able to open its arms so wide in a way that really changes the trajectory of families.