Leadership Public Schools in Richmond (LPS-Richmond) recently took a new step to prepare its students for adult life by holding its inaugural Senior Networking Brunch, during which seniors networked with more than 30 professionals and LPS Richmond alumni at the school.
The event was held at the campus at 880 Bissell Ave. Friday, April 21, at the culmination of College and Career Week, when seniors participate in a week of community service throughout Richmond, along with interactive adulting workshops and college campus tours.
At the Senior Networking Brunch, LPS seniors participated in group discussions and rotations in which they were encouraed to meet different adults in the room and ask questions about their career, education, life after high school, etc., according to LaTonya Pye, LPS career and community leadership coordinator. Afterward, students transitioned into smaller panels in classrooms, where professionals were grouped together based on having similar fields and backgrounds. Students opted in to the specific space that piqued their interest, such as education, law or business/technology, said Pye.
The adult professionals who participated were impressed by the young people, who were professional, mature, and curious, added Pye.
“We are very proud of our seniors for taking advantage of the opportunity and really taking the time to engage with so many new people,” she said, adding, “We are so proud of our soon to be graduates and their commitment to bringing their best selves to our event.”
Pye said she hopes the event will become a tradition at LPS Richmond.
