Jaalil Hart, a junior elementary education major at North Carolina A&T State University, was recently selected as one of eight students across the country to participate in the Grad Prep Academy Scholars Program at the University of Pennsylvania. The Grad Prep Academy is a project that prepares scholars for graduate study and research-related careers in the field of education. The project is also a longitudinal research study that enables the University of Pennsylvania to analyze Black men’s pathways from undergraduate study through graduate degree programs and eventually into their careers.

In addition, Hart was elected State President for the Student North Carolina Association of Educators (SNCAE); the first student from NC A&T to be elected to the office. In this role he will work with over 2,000 members across the state, interact with state lawmakers, and represent the organization at state and national conferences.

“I could not have been elected at a more opportune time,” said Hart. “I will be on the team that will lead a total redesign of the North Carolina Association of Educators and I am proud to represent the student members of the organization.