Rise High celebrated the Graduating Class of 2026 during a ceremony held May 9, 2026, at the Schenectady Boys & Girls Club. The event brought together family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, instructors, and community partners to recognize the accomplishments of the graduating seniors.
Founded in 2017 by Omayra Padilla De Jesus, Terri Little, and Mark Little, Rise High is a free, weekly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program serving students in grades 6 through 12. Built around four core pillars — Engaged Learning, Sustained Exposure, Mentorship, and Cohort Experience — the program provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore STEM in a supportive and engaging environment.
Rise High meets weekly throughout the school year, operating on a Fall and Spring Term model that provides continuity and stability in a safe, supportive setting. Through the program, students build academic knowledge and confidence while exploring new ideas, strengthening problem-solving skills, and forming lasting relationships with peers and mentors.
The Class of 2026 included 18 students from across Schenectady, half of whom have participated in Rise High since the sixth grade. Throughout their years in the program, the students developed into a close-knit cohort known for supporting one another, sharing laughter, and encouraging each other to dream big.
Guests at the ceremony included Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy; Rise High founders Omayra Padilla De Jesus, Terri Little, and Mark Little; representatives from the Wright Family Foundation and Ellis Medicine; members of the Rise High Board of Directors; and numerous family members, volunteers, mentors, and instructors connected to the program.
“Each of our students shares their talents and dreams with us at Rise High,” said Gretchen Belanger, Executive Director of Rise High. “I speak for everyone involved when I say we are honored to be part of their journey, to watch them grow as they join us year after year, and to know that they have a strong foundation for success in their future endeavors. Our wish is for all of our students to have courage, persistence, and confidence in their abilities, and to know that they always have a community that supports them.”
Rise High continues its mission of empowering local youth through meaningful STEM education, mentorship, and community connection, preparing students for future academic and career success. Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 academic year and can be found here.
As Rise High looks ahead to the 2026/2027 academic year, the organization is actively seeking new volunteers eager to make a difference in the lives of local students. To learn more about becoming a volunteer, click here.