sisterhood spotlights illuminate local girls who inspire
By SisterHood Scribe: Gretchen Johnson | Needham Mom

• 18 years ago, Arlene Wilhite of Mattapan was a new student at Urban College of Boston, a school that empowers Boston-area residents to build a foundation for “personal success as students, workers, citizens and leaders.” Providing affordable, part-time, two-year degrees to a predominantly female, non-white student base since 1993, Urban College was originally a program within Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD), catering to those “traditionally underserved by higher education.” www.urbancollege.edu
• Although Arlene’s initial collegiate experience was cut short to raise her young son, she returned to Urban College after a 14-year hiatus to complete her degree and graduated with the “school’s highest honors and an associate of arts degree in early childhood education.”  Boston Globe
• “As a single mom it was really important for me to show my son that education is really important,” said Wilhite, who would often do homework alongside her (now teenage) son Kendrick. “The things that I instilled in him, he was giving back to me. He was giving me tough love,” added Arlene, as she recalls her son “pestering her to turn the TV off and study.”  Boston Globe
• In addition to evening classes, Urban College provides career advice and free tutoring.  “The school has a soul,” said Michael Taylor, president of the college. “We really care about the students, and we really support them.” Boston Globe
• Congratulations Arlene (and Kendrick!) we are inspired by both of you!
• To learn more about the important work taking place at Urban College click here.