Two Albany High School rising seniors—Yehudah Levi and Jah'Quinn Thompson—have been named as My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Fellows for 2026!
"It is a great honor to stand amongst my brothers and represent Albany High as a fellow for MBK," Thompson shared.
The New York State Education Department inducted Yehudah Levi and Jah'Quinn (pictured L-R with Student Engagement Principal Shermaine Moore-Boayke, Ed.D. in center) into the 2026 My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Fellowship program on May 21. Their class of 122 students represents 50 communities across the state and is the ninth class in New York State MBK History.
"Each of the newly inducted Fellows has already made meaningful contributions in their schools and communities, demonstrating an aptitude for leadership and a deep sense of purpose, shared Commissioner of Education Betty A. Rosa upon induction of this year's class.
MBK was created in 2014 by former President Barack Obama, and it is a statewide initiative aimed at addressing opportunity gaps, helping boys and young men of color—and all students—realize their full potential.
"I think it's an opportunity to really grow as a leader, as a brother, as someone in the community that can be relied on," noted Levi.
Throughout the next year, these two remarkable Falcons will be matched with a mentor in government, education or business. In addition, all fellows are required to develop and carry out a service project related to a New York state MBK initiative such as:
- Ensuring equitable access to high-quality schools and programs;
- Expanding prevention, early warning and intervention services;
- Responding to structural and institutional racism; or
- Engaging families and communities in a trusted and respectful way.
Albany High has its own MBK Program with over 30 members. Student Engagement Principal Dr. Shermaine Moore-Boakye and Albany High teacher Charles Spence advise the group.