My Brother’s Keeper network grows, welcoming largest class of fellows

The State Education Department has introduced the eighth class of My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Fellows, marking its largest group of boys and young men of color who demonstrate leadership within their schools and communities. In addition, the MBK Community Network has expanded to include 50 member communities. Aimed at addressing opportunity gaps, the My Brother’s Keeper initiative seeks to help boys and young men of color, alongside all students, to realize their potential.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. expressed, "New York State My Brother’s Keeper is more than a program—it’s a movement that is changing lives by empowering young people to lead with purpose, and nurturing the next generation of changemakers dedicated to equity. We are proud to welcome the newest MBK Network Communities and Fellows as we continue to strengthen a culture of confidence, opportunity and achievement for all students. We extend our deepest gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, and their legislative colleagues for their unwavering commitment to the MBK mission and for opening doors of opportunity across New York State."

Commissioner Betty A. Rosa added, "My Brother’s Keeper reflects the Department’s steadfast commitment to uplifting every student and ensuring equity in education. It is our shared responsibility to close opportunity gaps and empower young people to realize their full potential. The remarkable young men named 2025 MBK Fellows today represent the promise of tomorrow—their leadership, vision, and determination will help shape a more just and inclusive future for us all."

The New York State My Brother’s Keeper Community Network has now expanded across 50 communities, with new members joining the initiative to improve educational outcomes for boys and young men of color. The latest additions to the Network are communities such as Auburn, Central Islip, and Lockport, to name a few. Joining requires a local superintendent and government official to endorse the initiative through a formal commitment to the MBK milestones and goals.

The MBK Fellows Program has inducted 124 new Fellows who will be each paired with a mentor from a Network partner and participate in fellowship opportunities. These activities include developing service projects related to initiatives like ensuring equitable access to high-quality education or addressing institutional racism.

Since its inception, 540 Fellows have been a part of the MBK Fellows Program, and more than $6 million have been awarded in grants for the MBK Indigenous Education Program. Furthermore, NYSED has dedicated over $55.5 million to the MBK Family and Community Engagement Program and $54.6 million towards MBK Challenge Grants since 2016.

In support of broader educational goals, Teacher Opportunity Corps II (TOC II) grants have totaled more than $33 million, supporting over 650 students in the latest project year and resulting in the graduation of 936 teachers.

For further information regarding My Brother’s Keeper, visit the State Education Department’s website or subscribe to their newsletter titled "Changing the Narrative."