Celebrating Identity and Building Community 

At YES Prep, we believe in creating spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated. This spring, our students gathered for the annual Community Affinity Summit, a powerful event centered on connection, belonging, and joy. 

YES Prep expanded its efforts to provide opportunities for students to develop pride in who they are and build relationships with others who share similar experiences. These efforts strengthen students’ support systems and build self-confidence, helping prepare them for success in college and beyond. 

Meet the 2025 Summit Lead 

This year’s event was led by Mariah Cruz, a third-year IRC teacher at YES Prep White Oak. Named Teacher of the Year for her impactful instruction and student engagement, she also serves as the campus ASPIRE Coordinator. Her leadership of the 2025 Community Summit brought energy, care, and intention to a space designed to uplift every student who attended. 

"The Community Summit is a conference designed to create a safe, inclusive, and fun space for our students. It provides a supportive environment where students can connect, celebrate their identities, and engage in discussions and activities that promote empowerment." 

Purpose and Passion 

As the lead, she stepped into this work with a deep commitment to students who are often overlooked. "I got involved in this initiative because of my passion for leading high-impact programs and my commitment to supporting students and communities," she said. "I believe in creating spaces where all people feel seen, valued, and encouraged to be their authentic selves." 

A Day of Connection and Joy 

Throughout the summit, students participated in workshops, team-building activities, and community-building conversations. The goal was clear: help students find unity, build lasting friendships, and experience the joy of being celebrated for exactly who they are. 

"The impact of this event will be rooted in its three core pillars: unity, lasting connections, and joy. The summit brings students together in a safe space, fosters a sense of belonging, and builds a network of support that goes beyond one day." 

A Lasting Impact 

For the lead, the experience was more than just another event—it was deeply personal. "This event fuels me. I feel seen, loved, and deeply grateful. Being part of a system that actively encourages and supports every single student is incredibly meaningful." 

She also emphasized the importance of learning about personal experiences and backgrounds: "Many students don’t have access to resources or feel comfortable seeking them out. By creating spaces like this, we give them the opportunity to learn, grow, and feel supported in a way they might not otherwise experience." 

Looking Ahead 

As YES Prep continues to evolve with new policies and changing needs, events like the Community Affinity Summit are reminders of our unwavering commitment to student well-being, connection, and celebration.