More than 150 students, families, school administrators, educators, alumni, community leaders, and partners gathered on June 16, 2026, at the Conference Center at 333 Westchester Avenue in White Plains for Today's Students Tomorrow's Teachers' (TSTT) Westchester Regional Recognition Celebration. The evening, themed "Continuing the Vision: Cultivating, Caring, Committed, and Competent Teachers," opened with welcome remarks from Mikayla Walters, Westchester Regional Program Manager, greetings from Lawrence Ault, TSTT Board Treasurer, and an inspiring address from Dr. Bettye H. Perkins, Founder, President, and CEO, introduced by TSTT alumna and Regional Program Consultant Jessica Reader. In her remarks, Dr. Perkins reflected on TSTT's remarkable growth from seven students in Westchester more than 30 years ago. Today, that vision has grown into a thriving regional initiative serving 7 regions across New York and Connecticut. More than 1,700 students have come through the TSTT program, pursuing their dreams of becoming educators and leaders in their communities. This year 442 students are in the program culminating in 2100 students served. Dr. Perkins emphasized that the future of our communities depends on preparing compassionate, culturally responsive educators. She also recognized the organization's expanding partnerships, including its historic collaboration with South Carolina State University, and reminded students that they are tomorrow's leaders who will educate, uplift, mentor, and transform their communities.
The program celebrated the success of TSTT alumni and current students alike. Kristina Brown, a TSTT alumna and graduate of Ossining High School and Seton Hall University, introduced keynote speaker Emerly Martinez, TSTT alumna and Principal of White Plains High School, whose educational journey exemplifies the lasting impact of the TSTT program. A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Lois T. Bronz Scholarship to Azon Laurel of Fallsburg Junior-Senior High School by former scholarship recipient Justice Mickens. The evening also recognized middle school students, high school seniors, college students, and dedicated teacher mentors, with graduating high school seniors proudly receiving TSTT's signature Green Apple Awards and Graduation Cords. Natacha Robert, a TSTT alumna and doctoral student, shared heartfelt reflections on the enduring influence of TSTT and the importance of giving back to the next generation of future educators.
The celebration concluded with closing remarks from Rosario (Rosie) Samudio, TSTT Program Director, who thanked the many families, school districts, alumni, volunteers, and community partners whose support continues to strengthen TSTT's educator pipeline. Special appreciation was extended to longtime title sponsors United Federation of Teachers (UFT), Morgan Stanley, and M&T Bank for their steadfast commitment to TSTT's mission. Guests enjoyed a festive reception featuring a variety of delicious hors d'oeuvres and desserts while celebrating the accomplishments of this year's students. The Westchester Regional Recognition Celebration served as a powerful reminder that through partnership, mentorship, and educational opportunity, TSTT continues to cultivate the next generation of caring, committed, and competent teachers who will strengthen classrooms and communities for years to come.
