Continuing our amazing 25-year history at YES Prep, few threads shine as brightly as the contributions of YES Prep’s first Director of College Counseling, Donald Kamentz, now CEO of Contigo Ed, an education consulting firm. As we celebrate a quarter-century of transforming education in Houston, Kamentz’s story serves as a beacon of the passion and innovation that have become hallmarks of the YES Prep experience. 

Kamentz's path to YES Prep began unexpectedly. While working at Teach For America, he encountered Chris Barbic's emerging school, which back then was known as Project Y.E.S. (Youth Engaged in Service). Little did he know, this chance connection would blossom into a 16-year journey of creating pathways to college success for thousands of Houston students.  

"What brought me to YES Prep was the opportunity to help create the college initiatives program from the ground up," Kamentz recalls. This blank canvas allowed him to craft a nationally recognized model for supporting first-generation, low-income students to and through college. 

Building a College-Bound Culture 

As YES Prep's first-ever Director of College Counseling and Alumni Programs, Kamentz witnessed the school's expansive growth. From a planning year with 17 juniors to overseeing nearly 500 seniors across multiple campuses, he helped scale a program that maintained its commitment to individualized support. 

Kamentz's innovative spirit shines through in signature programs that have become YES Prep traditions, such as: 

1. Junior Spring Trip: Launched in 2000, this initiative brought students to college campuses nationwide. "The ability to see and experience a college campus firsthand allows a student to imagine and really see themselves on that specific campus," Kamentz explained. 

2. IMPACT Partnership Program: Recognizing the power of peer support, Kamentz spearheaded partnerships with colleges committed to meeting students' full financial needs. The results speak for themselves – IMPACT participants boast a remarkable 70%+ four-year graduation rate. 

3. Senior Signing Day: Perhaps Kamentz's most visible legacy, this celebration of college acceptances has become a YES Prep cornerstone. From its humble beginnings with 17 students in 2001 to today's arena-sized events, Senior Signing Day embodies the joy and pride of the college-going journey. The origin story of Senior Signing Day is perfectly referenced in the book The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath. 

Kamentz's work at YES Prep has had far-reaching impacts: 

• His college initiatives model has been replicated by schools and districts nationwide. 

• The IMPACT program has opened doors for countless first-generation college students. 

• Senior Signing Day celebrations have spread across the country, inspiring students everywhere to dream big. 

"It's incredible and awe-inspiring to see YES Prep's growth and impact since its inception," Kamentz reflects. "Even when we were just one campus serving just hundreds of students, we saw what could happen if students were provided a rigorous academic program with so many supports and opportunities!" 

Looking to the Future 

As YES Prep celebrates 25 years of impact, Kamentz's legacy continues to shape the future of our college-bound students. The college initiatives team he built carries forward his vision of excellence and opportunity for all students. 

"It's just an honor and privilege to not only attend this year's Senior Signing Day but have seen so many districts and schools replicate this celebration in their own communities," Kamentz shares. "Just like our first one, every graduating senior has earned the right to be celebrated on what they have accomplished and what they will do after their high school career!" 

Kamentz's story is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation and belief in the potential of every student. As YES Prep looks to the next 25 years, his work stands as an inspiration for all who strive to create transformative educational experiences.