NEC Hosts ‘Youth Voices Summit’
On August 1st, 2019, New England College hosted the 15th Annual NH DCYF Youth Voices Summit. It was the first time New England College had been selected to host this day-long, statewide summit for youth involved with DCYF child protection and juvenile justice services. The goal of the summit is to assist youth in care with their transition to adulthood. On a beautiful August day on the NEC campus, the summit was attended by over 100 youth between the ages of 14 and 23.
The theme for this year’s 15th annual summit, developed by youth, was “Rap Music,” which highlighted the positive aspects of this art form as a means of self-expression and resilience. Throughout the day, participants attended educational workshops on topics such as obtaining a college degree, finding employment, choosing a career, budgeting, self-advocacy, forming healthy relationships, and locating help for substance abuse issues.
This year’s keynote speaker was Ethan Birch, a Fort Wayne, Indiana, native and graduate of Indiana University, who has dedicated his life to motivating youth through music. Ethan, also known as rapper Six 8, has been a vocal youth advocate at several national events, including the Future Business Leaders of America State Convention. In addition to providing the keynote address, Ethan lead an afternoon workshop on positive rap.
With lead coordination efforts by Professor Frank Jones and Sharon Williamson, along with her dedicated staff from NEC Campus events, and volunteers from the NEC Criminal Justice Club, the event was very successful and chances are very good NEC will be selected again next year as the host college.
