Entering The college Zone
breaking news!
Black Child Development Institute (BCDI)-Miami was proud to support the Black Student Union at the University of Florida in hosting its inaugural Youth Organizing for Unity and Transforming Higher Education (YOUTH) 2026 event.
Y.O.U.T.H. welcomed 70 students from Eastside High School and Pinellas Park High School to the University of Florida for a full-day immersive experience designed to give students a glimpse into the thriving Black community on campus.
From campus tours and a dynamic student organization fair to career-focused workshops and college readiness sessions, students experienced what it means to belong, lead, and succeed in higher education.
The entirely student-led event brought together 17 collaborating student organizations that tabled, facilitated workshops, shared resources, and helped create a meaningful community experience for participating students.
BCDI-Miami is proud to partner with the Black Student Union at the University of Florida and support its continued efforts to create spaces where Black youth are empowered to cultivate success and pursue higher education with confidence.
Meet Taylor Brown a journey of service & leadership
Taylor Brown is a proud graduate of Piper High School in Sunrise, Florida, where she distinguished herself through academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to serving others.
Throughout high school, Taylor completed more than 250 hours of community service, demonstrating her dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others. She proudly served as a member of her school’s Majorette Team and participated in Ladies of Virtue, a leadership and mentoring organization focused on empowering young women through character development, leadership, academic achievement, and community service.
Taylor’s commitment to service and leadership aligns beautifully with BCDI-Miami’s commitment to Family and Community Services for children and their families. Her willingness to give back, encourage others, and positively impact her community reflects the spirit of service that makes this Scholarship recognition particularly meaningful.
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Taylor has been accepted to Bethune-Cookman University, founded in 1904 by the visionary educator and humanitarian Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. She will matriculate in the Hospitality program, where she looks forward to continuing her education, developing her professional skills, and preparing for a successful future.
A WELL-DESERVED HONOR
Taylor is deeply honored and grateful to be a recipient of the BCDI-Miami Entering College Zone Scholarship Award for 2026.
This award represents more than an academic accomplishment. It is a reflection of Taylor’s hard work, perseverance, leadership, service, and the people and organizations that have supported her journey. As Taylor begins this exciting new chapter, she carries forward a commitment to excellence, service, leadership, and community.
