From June 5-11, 2023, Mercy High School’s Black Awareness Society for Education (B.A.S.E.) students attended their first-ever Black & Ivy College Tour. Chaperoned by Eleasha Tarplin ‘94, Dean of Student Affairs, and Traci Smith, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, the trip focused on exploring Historically Black Colleges and Universities and other prestigious institutions on the East Coast. Through the generous donations of the Song Foundation, Chick-fil-A, a host of alumnae, and friends of Mercy, along with the support of parents, 16 girls embarked on this enriching and informative trip.

 

The tour included the following states and schools: MARYLAND - Johns Hopkins University, Morgan State University, DC - Howard University, Georgetown University, VIRGINIA - Hampton University, and NORTH CAROLINA - Duke University, North Carolina A&T, Winston-Salem State University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

 

Students were well-received and connected with the college administration, faculty, and students. Some even began the admissions process by meeting on-site with admission counselors and deans. Our students also toured historic monuments such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., and other cultural sights and venues. The Black & Ivy College Tour will be an ongoing every other year opportunity for our students. Take a look at our video montage here!

 

If you wish to donate to support our next college tour, please visit mhsmi.org/giving/donate-mercy, select Other, and note Mercy BASE College Tour or send your donation to Mercy High School at 29300 W. 11 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48336 ATTN: Mercy BASE College Tour.