Williamson senior Raymere Stewart has repeatedly faced challenges in life, yet he consistently perseveres. Ray grew up in a tough neighborthood in Wilmington, Delaware, which, for many young men, can be an environment of low expectations and perceptions of inevitable failture. Instead, Ray is a rising star.
Impressed with Ray's work ethic and character, Ray's high school shop teacher suggested Williamson College of the Trades.
"When I came for a tour and saw this campus and everything here, I felt free—like I had a chance at a second life," Ray says.
Upon admission to the college's masonry program, Ray was required to participte in Williamson's tutoring program to build his math skills. For many students like Ray, coming from low-income school districts, Williamson offers tutoring intervention for freshmen to promote academic success. By the end of his first semester, Ray was already helping other students in the program, proving his abilities that were fostered in an environment like Williamson College of the Trades.
Williamson's curriculum is designed not only to instill trade skills, but also to build a foundation of leadership. With a focus on values-based learning, students are prepared for a variety of positions in the construction field. Ray's love of masonry and natural leadership skills have guided his aspirations toward managing projects and workers, typical of many Williamson students.
When Ray graduates in spring 2022 from Williamson's masonry program, he'll have all the building blocks to quickly contribute as a highly valued employee at any company he joins. And like all Williamson men, he will do so with faith, integrity, diligence and service.
With a gift in your estate plan, you can make a difference for young men like Ray for years to come. Contact Arlene A. Snyder, CFRE at 610-566-1776, Ext. 246 or asnyder@williamson.edu to learn more.