Heights Philadelphia’s Programs Help Students Prepare for College and Career

Editor's note: The caption of a photo in this piece was updated on Nov. 14, 2024, to correct Sean Vereen's title.

Paola Nogueras

Heights Philadelphia, a Pew Fund for Health and Human Services in Philadelphia growth grant recipient and participant in Pew’s Evaluation Capacity Building Initiative, works with low-income students, with an emphasis on Black, Latino, and first-generation-to-college youth. Its programs, which take place at local middle and high schools and at colleges around the country, help students set and achieve goals for educational and career success. Through individualized advising, partnerships that reduce barriers to college and workforce success, pathways to well-paying careers, and community support, Heights serves as a catalyst for the economic mobility of its participants and supports a more equitable and thriving city. 

We spoke with Kali Avans, a graduate of one of Heights’ programs.* An educator for more than 12 years, he has taught children from preschool to second grade in the city’s public schools and is currently dean of students for School Lane Charter School in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Avans is also a member of Heights’ alumni engagement leadership team. He received a bachelor’s degree from Dickinson College and a master’s degree and doctorate in education from Cabrini University.

In this interview, Dr. Avans explains how he was influenced by his experience with Heights.

What was your experience growing up in Philadelphia, and before participating in Heights’ programs?

I grew up in West Philadelphia and had some very scary experiences growing up there—such as witnessing gun violence, police brutality, and poverty. In light of these circumstances, I envisioned a life better than the one I was experiencing. Before participating in Heights, I knew that education would be my way out but wasn’t exactly sure how I would achieve my goals.

When did you participate in Heights’ programs, and are there any standout moments from your experience?

I began participating in the fall of 2003 when I was a freshman in high school. I was introduced to Jennifer Reed, a staff member (now with the school district) who helped me sign up for college visits, learn about and partake in exciting academic enrichment summer programs, and assisted me with my college search and application process. I think my biggest standout moment was being introduced to my mentor, Adam Levy, who has had—and continues to have—many major and positive impacts on my life. Adam exposed me to foods I had never considered trying, taught me how to drive, and imparted his wisdom around what it takes to be successful in college. He sees me as part of his family.

What tools did you gain from Heights’ program that helped you succeed in college and in your career path?

Networking, being resourceful, and multitasking are some skills I picked up on from my Heights experience that helped me be successful in my college and career paths. I was taught to look someone in the eyes and shake their hand, to not be afraid to introduce yourself, and to know who is in the room, because they could provide opportunities for you. Being engaged in Heights, my extracurricular activities, and working part time taught me how to juggle multiple responsibilities. I do believe that at some point I would have obtained these skills but not at the pace I was able to with Heights’ programming.

Was there a particular staff member or volunteer that had a big impact on your life?

Gabriel Bryant was a staff member who had an incredible impact on me. He was someone who looked like me and shared similar life experiences and helped me navigate my way through high school and college. Gabe would share his wisdom and advice, like taking care of things ahead of time so that I would not be overwhelmed and what to expect as a first-year college student. He always emphasized taking advantage of the resources on campus if I found myself struggling academically.

What advice would you give a young person or family that’s looking to get involved in Heights Philadelphia’s middle or high school programs?

I would recommend that they remain consistently persistent and simply trust the process. I’d tell them to take advantage of every opportunity, no matter how big or small it may seem. Amazing things will happen when you take a leap of faith into what is known and unknown.

Based on all of your experiences, what advice would you give a young person still in middle or high school as they consider college and a career?

I would tell them: Think about something that you are passionate about, and if you had to do it for free, what would it be? Does it propel you further and build you up? Does it allow you to have a positive impact? How are you able to lift people up as you climb?

What made you want to continue to engage with Heights as an alumnus?

When I left for college, I was told that when I graduate to be sure I leave my campus better than the way I found it. I have the same mindset with Heights. The program gave me so much, and I feel it’s my obligation to give back by pouring into the alumni program.

What do you think makes Heights unique and so important to helping create a more equitable Philadelphia?

Heights’ agenda is to assist the aims and aspirations of students who are marginalized or may not have the access and resources to reach their fullest potential. It levels the playing field for students who face adversity. Students from backgrounds similar to my own are provided with what they need to live in their purpose.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your experience or where it has led?

Having access to students with similar aspirations as me was a motivating factor to participate in Heights. Experiencing summer programs on college campuses each year gave me a better understanding of what to expect academically at the collegiate level. Potential without ambition and courage is a waste of talent. I am forever grateful that this program provided me with the tools to go above and beyond the expectations I set for myself. I was able to maximize my potential, ambition, and courage to realize my talents.

* Dr. Avans graduated from Philadelphia Futures’ “Sponsor A Scholar” program before that organization merged with SteppingStone Scholars in 2022 to become Heights Philadelphia.

Pew awarded Heights Philadelphia $3 million over five years in March 2023 to expand its capacity to provide low-income students—with an emphasis on Black, Latino, and first-generation students—with programming and support for college and career success.