First-Ever Project ENRICH "Homecoming" Turns Out the Crowd and Excitement for the Program

It was the first-ever event of its kind in the illustrious 40-year history of Project ENRICH (1985-2025). After decades of agenda-packed Saturday information sessions, college tours, hosting celebrity speakers, field trips, and special Black History Month programs, the one activity that Project ENRICH had never done is host a Homecoming. That all changed when the program run by Gamma Pi Chapter held a successful and well-attended Homecoming gathering on Saturday, January 3 at its new temporary home, Greater Mount Nebo AME Church in Bowie, where Bro. Rev. Dr. Gerald Folsom is the pastor. It was a first of its type event for Project ENRICH, but certainly will not be the last given the reception.

Bro. Dr. Montgomery and former directors reminisce

Approximately 200 students, parents and alumni attended the Inaugural Homecoming. Also in attendance were former Project ENRICH directors Bros. Willie Hines and James Riley, as well as former staff. There were four solid rows of alumni who came to show support and reminisce on those Saturday mornings when they had to arise early to venture to Project ENRICH when it was held on-campus at nearby Bowie State University.

True to form, Project ENRICH, led by Bro. Dr. George Montgomery and team, turned the day into a learning experience. It was not just a social occasion. The program’s motto, "Excellence Without Excuses," was in full bloom and clearly reflected in the program agenda.

"This is an amazing day," said Bro. Dr. Montgomery, in welcoming the audience.

Project ENRICH alumni stand

Current students received some very useful tips about college from a special panel of recent alumni, including one who recently graduated from college. 

A networking session also allowed students to get personal time with alumni and former staff to plot their futures and get a leg up on preparing themselves to compete in today's complex and challenging world. 

Some of the topics addressed include effective study habits, adequate sleep and rest, class attendance, time management, obtaining scholarships and having a positive relationship with your professor.

Panelists were candid in sharing their experiences. They did not hold back in revealing some of their own missteps as they looked back at how they adjusted to college life. 

Local Maryland House Delegates Tiffany Austin (Dist. 24) and Nicole Williams (Dist. 22) were in attendance and took turns greeting and encouraging the students. Both mentioned scholarships that were available through their offices. Bro. Rev. Aaron Stewart, who was named Gamma Pi's Religious Leader of the Year, also spoke to the students with a message of UPLIFT.

Alumni panel shares advice

At the end of the four-hour series of activities everyone was treated to a catered meal. Like most Homecomings, it could easily have been a tailgate on a warmer day.

In its 40-year history, Project ENRICH has graduated 927 students with 100% of the students going on to attend college. Last year's senior class earned $5.4 million in college scholarships.

Below are some other photos from the event.