White Plains City School District students empowered at MBK youth symposium

Thirty-two students from White Plains High School and Rochambeau Alternative High School joined hundreds of their peers at the Westchester County Center on Tuesday for an event centered on leadership, voice and opportunity.

More than 350 attendees took part in the 2026 Youth Leadership Symposium, hosted by the Westchester County Youth Bureau in partnership with the Lower Hudson Valley and New York State My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Alliances. 

The event, the first in-person MBK symposium since 2019, brought together students, superintendents, educators and elected officials from across the region.

Throughout the day, students engaged in conversations that challenged and encouraged them — from keynote speaker Brad Butler II’s address, “From IEPs to Degrees,” to panel discussions on education, emotional resilience, relationships and the impact of social media and violence on youth culture.

For White Plains students, the experience resonated well beyond the sessions.

“We are so proud of the way our students showed up, and I truly believe it meant a great deal to them to have Superintendent Dr. Joseph Ricca there with them — and to have been chosen to participate in this event in the first place,” said House Administrator Monique Adams. “They left the summit feeling empowered, seen and inspired, and their excitement and growth were evident.”

One of the day’s most impactful moments came during the Superintendents Fireside Chat, where school leaders were challenged not only to reflect, but to commit to meaningful actions that support young men of color. The discussion emphasized accountability, partnership and the urgency of closing opportunity gaps.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins underscored the importance of the symposium in helping students recognize their potential.

“In a world that often defines people by what they lack, we can be inspired by the narratives shared today about how adversity can be the catalyst to success,” Mr. Jenkins said. “I want them to understand that excellence is a habit to be practiced every day, and that they have the power to shape their own reality and make this community a better place.”

Westchester County Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden echoed that message, highlighting the role of community in student success.

“Empowerment happens when young people are surrounded by support, inspiration and opportunity,” Mr. McFadden said. “Seeing hundreds of students come together with educators and community leaders reminds us of what’s possible when we invest in our youth.”

The My Brother’s Keeper Alliances bring together municipalities, schools and community groups to improve outcomes for boys and young men of color. Since 2018, Westchester County has partnered with 14 local MBK programs to expand access to resources, mentorship and opportunities.

For White Plains students, the day provided a vivid reminder that their voices matter, and that they have a community ready to support them as they step into leadership roles of their own.