Alumni Come Together: A Night of Connection, Celebration, and Knights Helping Knights
Destination: College’s annual Alumni Party once again proved the power of community — and this year’s gathering was our biggest yet.
More than 60 Destination: College alumni came together, representing a wide range of graduating classes, colleges, and career paths. Leading the way was the DC Class of 2022, turning out in record numbers and setting the tone for an evening rooted in connection, pride, and shared experience. Over a dozen volunteer mentors were also in attendance, including DC alumni mentors, underscoring the full-circle impact of our growing alumni network.
The room buzzed with energy as current college students connected with recent graduates and alumni already well into their careers. Stories were exchanged, advice was offered, and meaningful professional connections were made. What stood out most was seeing Knights helping Knights — alumni lifting one another up, just as they were once supported.
One powerful example of this spirit was the connection between Nate Salmon (DC Class of 2016, SUNY Buffalo State University ’22) and Orlando Dawkins (DC Class of 2020, SUNY Plattsburgh ’25). Nate shared practical guidance on applying to the NYC Department of Corrections and how to leverage a college degree in the process. The impact was immediate — Orlando reached out to Destination: College the very next morning for additional support, expressing deep gratitude for the encouragement and help he received.
The evening also featured remarks from Dr. Mendel Murray, a 2014 graduate of Nellie Thornton High School (now Denzel Washington School of the Arts). Dr. Murray shared his journey from the University of Bridgeport to his current role as Manager of Community Relations for the Golden State Warriors. Invited through his connection to DC alum Kaseem Miller (PepsiCo), Dr. Murray’s story added inspiration and perspective to an already powerful night.
Our alumni community continues to grow and thrive, with graduates now working at organizations including UBS, PwC, KPMG, PepsiCo, the MTA, and the City of Mount Vernon, among many others.
This annual gathering is more than a party — it’s a celebration of relationships that last well beyond high school and college, and a reminder that Destination: College alumni are building futures together.
Get Involved
The strength of Destination: College is built on relationships — and our alumni and volunteer community plays a critical role in that work. As our programs continue to grow, we’re looking for volunteers to support students in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Opportunities include volunteering with Team Reads, supporting students in the Cooney College Center, serving as a mentor in our Mentoring Program, or providing academic support through our Tutoring Program.
If you’re interested in giving back and helping students succeed in school, prepare for college, and persist beyond high school, we’d love to hear from you.
👉 Learn more about volunteering with Destination: College.
