ALL WAYS UP ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH: Anthony Price, AWU 2016

Each month, the All Ways Up Alumni Association will spotlight a member. This month’s spotlight moment goes to Anthony Price, a nonprofit founder, community innovator, and graduate of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut.

Check out our spotlight interview with Anthony...

Where are you from?

I am from Cleveland, Ohio.

What year did you attend an AWU SUMMIT? Were you a part of day summit or week-long summit? Do you remember the location?

I had the pleasure to attend the 2016 All Ways Up one-week summit at UCLA.

What organization and/or program introduced you to the AWU Foundation (or introduced you to the scholarship opportunity)?

Minds Matter of Cleveland, a nonprofit that helps high school students from the greater Cleveland area prepare for college.

How did you hear about the All Ways Up Foundation? What were your first thoughts upon hearing about your acceptance to the AWU Foundation scholarship program?

Prior to becoming an AWU scholar, I served as a scholar of the Minds Matter of Cleveland Program with a similar mission to help students attend and graduate college. As a result, I had the pleasure of meeting leaders of the Foundation, who still serve as dear mentors, and they highly suggested that I apply to the program. Shortly after receiving news of my acceptance, I felt honored that I was chosen and looked forward to attending the Summit prior to my first semester of college.

Tell us one or two memories from your AWU experience? What did you enjoy most about the experience? Who have you met through AWU that inspires you the most?

The AWU one-week summit has a special place in my heart. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to serve as both a scholar and counselor for three educational summits throughout college. For every Summit, there is always something to take away for life beyond the Summit. Whether this involves building relationships, delivering your personal brand pitch, or embracing your adversity – you have the power to make a difference not only for your family but also your community. And the Foundation will be there at every step of the way to support you in those endeavors.

What college did you attend? What degree did you obtain?

I graduated cum laude from Wesleyan University and received my Bachelor of Arts in Government and American Studies.

How did AWU help prepare you for your collegiate journey?

AWU ensured that I could focus strictly on my education by providing the necessary financial resources that were not covered. Additionally, the AWU network is extremely helpful for life beyond college. I would recommend that both incoming and current scholars use their collegiate years to continue fostering and building relationships with both alumni and supporters of the program.

What are you doing now? Job? Career? Nonprofit work?

Currently, I work at Universal Service Administrative Company, a nonprofit in Washington, D.C. I serve as a Program Management Analyst for the organization, ensuring low-income families nationwide stay connected to their families, jobs, and emergency services. I also serve on the boards of both Be The Change Venture 501(c) (3) and the Jaylen D. Berry Foundation, two amazing nonprofits that help high school students prepare for college and the professional workforce.

What are some of your career goals and aspirations? Dreams?

In the new few years, I want to attend law school, practice law and focus on representing vulnerable Americans who cannot afford legal representation. At some point, I do intend to run for office and craft policy that protects workers, enhance public education and ensure all Americans can receive adequate health care.

How do you believe the All Ways Alumni Association can best serve alumni students?

The AWU Alumni Association can best serve by continuing to be a resource for incoming AWU graduates and use its collective power to ensure no one is left behind. Whether this involves internships, full-time positions, or resources for graduate school, we have the capacity to ensure the larger AWU family can thrive beyond college.

If you could give the Alumni Association members and current AWU scholars a message of encouragement as we enter the second month of 2021, what message would that be?

Leverage this moment to prioritize your health and enhance your personal brand. Whether this involves taking a LinkedIn course, reading a new book, or reaching out to a potential connection - use this moment to invest in yourself.

“I met Anthony at the 2016 All Ways Up Through Education Summit in Los Angeles, California. Our collective desire to impact our communities through political and philanthropic avenues of justice brought us together. I am inspired by the work he has done as the founder of Be the Change Venture, where he now serves on the Board of Trustees. His devotion to career development has prepared hundreds of students for the workforce. I am excited to see what the future has in store for him as he seeks to transcend the justice system and transform our political institutions in America.”

Christian G. Crawford, President AWU Alumni Association