Mission Statement
The Summit of Seven improves awareness of available educational opportunities, including college, vocational/technical schools, trade apprenticeship, and military service. Those involved in learning opportunities show greater academic success, more involvement, improved motivation, and greater intellectual growth. They are more intellectually mature, develop healthier relationships (both personally and professionally), and lifestyle choices. By encouraging our youth to further their education, we are providing them with the key to their future. Increased self-esteem and encouraging a sense of accomplishment, helps to learn strategies to focus on developing positive relationships within the community, peer groups, families, and with authorities. Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) are more important now. DEI training is increasingly important in today’s multicultural and multigenerational workplace. This knowledge will help them be successful in the community and professional world.
Description
Background: In the 1980’s deacons at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church (MMMBC) started the Boys & Men BBQ attracting about 25 attendees. In 1994 the Summit of Seven (SofS) was established to provide education to underserved youth drawing about 100 attendees. 2015 the Summit of Seven 501 (c)(3), Foundation was established, which supplanted the church affiliation, making it an independent organization. 2018 the SofS Boys & Men Conference outgrew the MMMBC facilities, the President, of Eastern Florida State College, offered to host the Annual Conference.
Annual Event Information: The Annual Conference has grown from a BBQ drawing less than 25 attendees to 268 participants in 2019. We have attracted many note-worthy speakers, TV personality, Judge Glenda Hatchett, Winston Scott, Retired U.S.N. Captain and former NASA Astronaut, Lucille O’Neil, motivational speaker and Shaquille O’Neal’s mother. We open Friday with a Festival of Fun, motivational speakers, prizes, and food. Saturday workshops, and ends with a Community Luncheon, including speakers, mentors, sponsors, community leaders, and volunteers.
