A new club established last school year at the Center for Career Services celebrated its first group of graduating seniors during a recent Unity Circle Ceremony.

The Unity Circle’s mission—similar to that of My Brother’s Keeper—is to provide a platform for students to support and explore challenges within Southern Westchester BOCES’ career and technical education program.

The club is led by advisors Kevin McAllister and Orlander Morris.

“It interrupts negative thinking patterns and provides positive alternatives to addressing students’ social-emotional needs, empowering them to find solutions with the support of staff,” said Mr. McAllister, who serves as a school counselor. “By creating a safe space for emotional exploration, it helps students understand how academic success shapes their future goals.”

The Unity Circle fosters a safe, supportive environment that encourages them to reach their full potential, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. The initiative seeks to “change the narrative” by focusing on two key factors:

1. Building a Strong Sense of Self: Fostering student collaboration to enhance relationships and community leadership, while setting realistic goals to achieve future success.

2. Supporting Pathways to Success: Encouraging active engagement within the CTE community and developing proactive problem-solving skills, which are essential for college, career, and future readiness.

Students who completed the Unity Circle program will wear black and gold cords to recognize their participation in the program at Career Services’ upcoming Recognition Ceremony, scheduled for June 11 at the Westchester County Center.