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Franklin Military Academy cadets travel to the Kennedy Center

Several members of the Focus Motivated Achievers at Franklin Military Academy (FMA2) program recently traveled to Washington, DC to attend a performance by the world renowned Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe as part of a partnership with the Richmond (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Nearly twenty middle school-aged girls attended the performance, which served as the culminating activity of a four-month initiative to expose the students to enriching experiences that include international and national studies, health and services and the arts.

Established in 2014, the FMA2 program pairs seventh grade students with individual mentors who guide them through a variety of leadership, health and wellness, goal setting and cultural awareness experiences. Students are also exposed to STEAM careers and attend workshops designed to provide real world application of the skills and activities offered throughout the program.

“The students involved in the program have truly blossomed. They have become more confident and their social skills have really improved. They have also become more culturally aware because of their exposure to such a variety of experiences and they now understand that they are a part of a larger world and that they have a responsibility to serve others,” said Sheron Carter-Gunter, Franklin Military Academy principal. “This program has helped to improve attendance as well as student engagement, and has had significant impact on the lives of the girls and the members of the Links as well.”

The Links, Incorporated is a national volunteer service organization which focuses on five core areas of services to youth, the arts, national trends and services, international trends and services and health and human services.