Pennington Hosts Third Annual Gentleman’s Brunch

MOUNT VERNON – Young Scholars in grades sixth through eighth, along with their fathers and fatherly figures, congregated in the auditorium at Pennington School for the third annual Gentlemen’s Brunch. Esteemed professionals from across the City of Mount Vernon visited to discuss what it means to be a leader and how to overcome hardships.

Throughout the day, several individuals came to the school to speak with students including:
• Dr. Demario Strickland, Superintendent of Mount Vernon City School District
• Jaevon Boxhill, City of Mount Vernon Councilman
• Warren Mitchell, Mount Vernon City School District Board of Education Vice President
• Dr. Chris McDonough, Mount Vernon City School District Board of Education trustee
• Gregory Addison, Deputy Chief of Police in Mount Vernon
• Torian Kendall, Mount Vernon City School District Special Education Supervisor

Superintendent Dr. Demario Strickland started his session with a positive affirmation, asking the audience to repeat after him saying “I am my brother’s keeper.” He then invited students to think about a struggle they have had and what they will not allow anyone to take away from them. His session concluded with students discussing their responses with the Superintendent.

Leading up to the event, students participated in educational sessions to better understand themes such as no means no, toxic masculinity and what do you do after you fail. During the event, each panelist went up to the podium one by one to speak with students.