The posse graduates from Grinnell

Four years ago, 10 disadvantaged L.A. high school grads headed for Grinnell College in Iowa with full scholarships and the support of one another. Now nine of them have graduated, and The Times' Duke Helfand was at the ceremony.

Steven Johnson, center, 21, enjoys graduation at Grinnell College.

Nikisha Glenn, 21, stands out among her classmates on graduation day on May 19.

The group was supported by the New York-based Posse Foundation, which recruits students from six cities — including Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C. — to create "posses" at colleges around the country.

The idea is to provide support networks for diverse groups of students who are chosen for their leadership talents, strong communication skills, ability to work as team players and their desire to succeed.

So the posse doesn't just get funding, its members get ready-made shoulders to cry on, classmates to rely on.

Over 19 years, 2,200 students have gone to college with tuition paid by the foundation. According to the foundation, 90% of posse students graduate within five years, exceeding national averages.

For more information about the foundation, click here.

-- Mary MacVean

Photos by Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times

ue

Comments

[Marcy Caine]

This is very exciting. So many students at every level drop out because they are discouraged. Lack of support seems to be a likely cause.

[James Decker]

As a Grinnell grad from some 33 years ago, I can only say I think this is a wonderful event. This would have been a great idea 33 years ago too. I am only sorry to say that Grinnell didn't do this earlier. I wish to congratuate all the folks in the Grinnell Posse and wish them success in their futures.