On a crisp February morning at The SEED School of Maryland, a quiet transformation took place. It began over lunch, where young men dressed in their finest, sat across from accomplished professionals who, not long ago, had been in their seats.
The inaugural Brotherhood Panel, led by IYT mentors Faith Gasque and Sanaa Lucas, provided IYT members with a unique opportunity to engage one-on-one with college students, recent graduates, entrepreneurs, and business leaders in an intimate setting. These connections created space for candid conversations, allowing members to ask meaningful questions and receive relatable advice that resonated with their own experiences.
"I really enjoyed the brotherhood panel. I was nervous at first about the luncheon, but I learned a lot from the men that were there." – Eliyah Rosario, SEED School of Maryland, 8th Grade
The panelists were men of color from diverse fields, each carrying a story of ambition, resilience, and, above all, possibility. Termane Jay, a graduating senior majoring in screenwriting and animation, spoke about navigating the creative industry while balancing his commitment to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Jared Patterson, also a graduating senior and a student regent, shared insights from his leadership role and his brotherhood in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Jared Nichols, a former track runner turned outreach coordinator at Coppin State, highlighted the importance of community engagement in shaping one’s future.
Joe Sallia, a Bowie State graduate with a background in accounting and finance, detailed his professional journey—from Goldman Sachs to his current role as an IT international auditor at Brown Advisory—emphasizing financial literacy and career persistence.
"I had the incredible opportunity to be a panel member at the SEED School of Maryland. It was truly an amazing experience engaging with bright, young students who are enthusiastic about their futures. Engaging with a diverse background of students and seeing their genuine interest in higher education and all the opportunities life has to offer was heartwarming. Being part of this panel was a rewarding experience, and I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to their journeys." – Joe Sallia, Panelist, finance expert at Brown Advisory
The event also spotlighted SMOOTH (Strong Men Overcoming Obstacles Through Hard Work), an organization founded in 2009 at Morgan State University that has helped hundreds of Black men across the country forge an enduring bond of mentorship and support.
Michael Casper, now Chief Operating Officer at Improve Your Tomorrow, shared a different path. A graduate of California State University-Sacramento with a bachelor's degree and executive MBA, Casper's career at U.S. Bank spanned roles in leadership development, small business support, and branch management. His journey highlighted the significance of intentional leadership and the importance of giving back.
Following the luncheon, the brothers led their guests on a campus tour, pride evident in every step. Then, in the school auditorium, the panelists took the stage. The discussion—guided by Faith, Sanaa, and a skillful moderator—unfolded like a conversation among old friends, even as it carried weighty themes: the challenges of carving a path forward, the barriers that still exist, and the motivations that push one to keep going.
The stories resonated. The young men in the audience nodded in recognition, seeing reflections of their own struggles, their own dreams. When the floor opened for questions, hands shot up—not just for advice, but for connection. How do you stay motivated? What do you do when you feel lost? Each answer was a bridge, a reminder that success is not a solitary journey but one built on community, on those who extend a hand.
By the day’s end, the impact was unmistakable. Staff and students alike called the event a triumph, "I really enjoyed the Brotherhood Panel," shared eighth-grader Eliyah Rosario. "I was nervous at first about the luncheon, but I learned a lot from the men that were there." Sanaa Lucas, one of the event’s architects, reflected on the months of preparation. "It was hard work putting this panel together, but it was all worth it in the end. I am glad that the brothers were able to receive vital information from men who look like them."
IYT extends its deepest gratitude to all who contributed to this moment. If the Brotherhood Panel proved anything, it is that mentorship is not merely about guidance—it is about showing young men that their dreams are not just possible, but within reach.
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