Miami Dade College and the Overtown Youth Center have entered into a memorandum of understanding intended to improve educational access and workforce preparation for youth and families in Miami-Dade County, according to a press release issued by the college.
The agreement creates a structure for the two organizations to coordinate new and existing efforts that support college readiness, career preparation and long-term academic progress.
The partnership was recognized during a ceremony on Feb. 19 attended by MDC President Madeline Pumariega; MDC Executive Vice President and Provost Malou Harrison; OYC Miami CEO Tina Brown; and Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of Honey Shine and co-founder of OYC Miami.
(L-R) MDC President Madeline Pumariega; Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder Honey Shine and co-founder, Overtown Youth Center; Tina Brown, Overtown Youth Center, CEO; and Dr. Malou Harrison, MDC EVP and Provost.
(Miami Dade College)
Under the agreement, MDC will provide programming aimed at introducing participants to college opportunities and expectations. Planned activities include workshops, master classes, guest lectures and campus-based experiences such as visits, shadowing and bridge programs. The college will also connect its students to OYC participants through service-learning initiatives that include tutoring and mentorship.
Additional support will focus on helping students manage the transition to higher education, including guidance on enrollment and financial aid. The partnership also calls for workforce-focused initiatives such as continuing education courses, skills-based training and programming aligned with employment needs in South Florida. Staff members from both institutions will serve as liaisons to assist students from initial participation through early stages of college, the press release stated.
“Miami Dade College is proud to partner with the OYC Miami to create meaningful pathways to education and student success for youth in our community,” Pumariega said in the press release. “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to access, innovation, and opportunity, connecting young people to mentorship, academic preparation, and career-focused experiences that will empower them to reach their full potential.”
Brown said the collaboration will broaden opportunities for the families OYC serves.
“Education and opportunity are powerful tools for transformation,” Brown said in a statement. “This partnership with Miami Dade College expands the possibilities for our young people and families, connecting them to academic pathways, mentorship, and career preparation that support long-term success and economic mobility.”
Founded in 2003, the Overtown Youth Center provides academic enrichment, college and career readiness services, family support, health and wellness initiatives and leadership development programming.
Miami Dade College, established in 1960, enrolls approximately 125,000 students and offers more than 300 degree and certificate programs across eight campuses and outreach centers.