By Jo Mathis/AAPS District News Editor
Editor’s note: This is the third in a series of profiles of the five AAPS high school seniors who were recently named “Young Men of Promise” by the Delta Psi Omega chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
The students were recognized during the chapter’s annual Celebration of Black Men Brunch which honors local African American men who have given back to the community through service in the arts, business/economics, community service, education, health and as a trailblazer.
The goal of the Celebration of Black Men is to applaud these unsung heroes who have made a significant and/or unique contribution to our black community, explained Delta Psi Omega member Patricia Manley, an AAPS School Board trustee, who oversees the Young Men of Promise program.
The full list of honorees includes:
- Community High School – Quincy David Jenkins
- Huron High School – Abdul Kizito
- Pathways to Success Academic Campus – LeMarcus (Marty) Roper
- Pioneer High School – Gabriel C. Nwogu
- Skyline High School – Ryan Anthony Wade
- Lincoln Consolidated High School – William McDonald
- Ypsilanti Community High School – Emerson Williams
Ryan Wade
Skyline Senior Class Principal Alberta Britton calls Ryan Wade a special person who is quiet yet can get the job done with his “silent thunder of leadership style.”
“Ryan Anthony Wade is a role model for many of his peers and even adults he supports his peers by attending any and all sports competitions with true school spirit and showing others how to just have fun,” she says. “He is a kind person with a heart of gold, and has a beautiful smile.”
Ryan is a two-year varsity basketball captain, serves as a volunteer for Food Gathers, a Rising Scholar, a three-year NAACP Freedom Fund Scholar recipient, and member of Skyline High School’s Business Magnet.
While continuing to work towards his own academic excellence (his current GPA is 3.4), he helps his peers by tutoring them.
Ryan has been offered 11 scholarships to Division 1 schools to play basketball. He has committed to The College of Holy Cross, a Division 1 school located in Worcester, Massachusetts to continue his education and aspirations in sports.
Family: I am the youngest of six. Mom (Maria), Dad (Keith). Three brothers, Brandon, Jon, and Chris. Two sisters, Christina, and Briana.
Favorite hangouts: Other than being in the gym I like laying back and hanging out with friends and family. Watch sports, and play video games like Fortnite, or Madden.
Favorite musical artist: My favorite artist is Youngboy Never Broke Again.
If you could have witnessed any event in history, what would it be? If i could witness any event it would be Michael Jordan’s game winner in the NBA Finals
Which elementary, middle, and high school teachers have made the biggest difference in your life? My favorite elementary school teacher at Haisley was Mrs. Ellen McGee. My favorite middle school teacher at Forsythe was Mr. Stanbridge, the gym teacher. In High school, Mrs. Brittany Ray () had the biggest impact on me.
If you had a 10-year-old brother, what advice would you give him? Well, I have a nephew who is around the same age. I just let him know that you have to be determined and put your mind to anything you want to accomplish, and I and the rest of my family will always be there to support him.
What were you doing in your last selfie? Smiling with friends.
Do you think teens today have it tougher than their parents did? No, I believe our parents had it tougher because they didn’t have technology like we did.
What do you plan to do after high school? I am continuing my academic and athletic career at The College of Holy Cross, on a full ride Division 1 basketball scholarship.
Finish this sentence: “I wish people over 40 would understand that …” Teens want to enjoy their youth and live life to the fullest.
And this one: “If I won the lottery, I would …” Get a really nice house and car. Provide for my family and close friends.
What do you think you’ll miss most about Skyline? Just all the friendships and relationships I’ve made with teachers, and peers. I’m gonna miss the game days, football student section, and my basketball games.
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