Gain an Edge
20 November, 2024
FOCUS Graduate Daleisha Sweeting Achieves College Dreams
Since its inception in 2011, nearly 150 students have completed the eight years of the FOCUS programme and have found FOCUS to be a reliable bridge to post-secondary education.
Daleisha Sweeting is a FOCUS graduate and newly named Cutillas Scholar who has been partnering with the Foundations to pursue her dreams since her formative years.
“It feels like just yesterday when I applied to be in FOCUS in Grade 4,” reflected Daleisha. “It was such an honour to be selected that I didn’t think about what that lay ahead.”
Over the next eight years, Daleisha devoted 15 Saturdays per school year to FOCUS enrichment activities that included learning interventions in mathematics, English, science and social studies. When not involved in project-based-learning, Daleisha and her peers participated in field trips, sports and extracurricular activities. Summers were even busier with FOCUS Summer SLAM, a 30-day summer intensive at the University of The Bahamas.
For Daleisha, the adventure was well worth it.
“With the help of FOCUS, I maintained a 3.5 grade point average. I am now an experienced debater, speech competitor and young reporter for the environment!”
Daleisha was salutatorian for H.O. Nash Junior High School and received a scholarship to attend St. John’s College, a private school.
With FOCUS as a foundation, she became the first in her family to attend college.
Today, Lyford Cay Foundations continues to be there for Daleisha. She is now enrolled as a first-year Law and Criminal Justice student at the University of The Bahamas and has been named as one of the Foundations’ Cutillas Scholars.
As a Cutillas Scholar, Daleisha receives a scholarship, critical academic resources and guidance. Daleisha is grateful for the support she has received to bridge the gaps.
“I am honoured to attend the University of The Bahamas with support from The Bahamas Government Tertiary Grant and the Cutillas Scholarship. I aim to make my FOCUS family proud.”
28 February, 2024
Making a LEAP for Education
Triplets Sammia, Serrenda and Brenden are bubbly fifth graders who love attending Uriah McPhee Primary School. They are naturally curious. Two years ago, their curiosity changed their educational journey.
They remember the day they heard a presentation at school about LEAP (Learning Environment to Accelerate Progress), an educational pilot programme developed by Lyford Cay Foundations to address the learning loss created by the pandemic. The tuition-free programme, for selected students in Grades 1 through 4, offers support in critical areas including numeracy, literacy and social emotional skills.
“LEAP sounded like fun. I didn’t really know what it was, but I wanted to learn more,” said Serrenda. With the help of their family, they applied and were accepted into the first cohort of 41 students. That’s when their learning adventure began.
For 10 Saturdays, they woke up early, packed LEAP backpacks, dressed in uniforms provided by LEAP, boarded a bus and rode to Lyford Cay International School (LCIS).
Their half-days at LCIS included interactive lessons to boost skills in reading, comprehension, written language and problem solving in math and numeracy. A hearty breakfast, healthy hot lunch, time on learning tablets and playtime on the LCIS playground were fun parts of the day! Their instructors were teachers from both LCIS and Uriah McPhee Primary, creating a unique public-private school partnership.
“I was excited to be a part of a programme that would help close the learning gap,” shared Ms. Tamea Johnson-King, a LEAP teacher from Uriah McPhee Primary. “The collaboration with other teachers gave us an opportunity to bounce ideas off of each other and students learned in an environment with minimal distractions.”
Mr. O’Niel Bain, LCIS’s Marketing, Advancement and Communications Director noted, ““An important strategic goal for LCIS is to develop partnerships that enrich the broader Bahamian community. We are delighted to share our facilities and expertise with LEAP.”
The triplets believe that LEAP helped them academically. Serrenda noted, “LEAP helped me stay focused and one step ahead.” Sammia shared, “Because of LEAP, I read more books!”
Lyford Cay Foundations is now expanding LEAP with a new partnership between E.P. Roberts Primary School and St. Andrews International School which will allow 40 additional students to participate. Brenden thinks this is a good thing.
“LEAP would be great for all students,” he said. “But you can’t force them. Doing better is something you have to want to do.”
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“Gain An Edge is a collaboration of Lyford Cay Foundations, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute and the University of The Bahamas aimed at promoting a national dialogue on issues surrounding education. To share your thoughts, email gainanedge@tribunemedia.net.
26 November, 2019
50th Anniversary – Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving
For many Bahamians, [the] Lyford Cay Foundations has been and continues to be the place they can turn to “knock and have the door of opportunity opened” to them. As the Foundations came together to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a service of thanksgiving, Catholic Archbishop Patrick Pinder said the Bahamian public was grateful to those people that had the vision to initiate the Foundations and the people whose energy, commitment and sacrifice perpetuate the Foundations and the work they continue to do in and for Bahamians.
“The work of organizations such as [the] Lyford Cay Foundations can and does lead to that admirable aspect of any community – namely, the flourishing of the human spirit,” said Pinder during their recent service at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. “Fifty years of philanthropy in a culture not famous for its philanthropic spirit is a remarkable achievement and an excellent example and a much-needed example. Your example of private commitment to the public good is a standard of leadership and it is pacesetting. Fifty years in a nation not yet itself 50 is a cause for celebration and for giving thanks. Fifty years of philanthropic activity in a culture not particularly known for its philanthropy is simply remarkable.”
(more…)13 May, 2019
GAIN AN EDGE: Achieving College Dreams Through Summer Learning
Thanks to StemForce Bahamas, a grant from Lyford Cay Foundations and support from other donors, Bahamian public-school students like Carmetta Barry have developed a passion for learning science while also carving a path to higher education.
Carmetta Barry, pictured above, is a member of the Class of 2019 of FOCUS, a Lyford Cay Foundations’ college access programme. The 2018-2019 Head Girl of C. R. Walker Senior High is also the first Junior Minister for the Environment, who while in grade 11 was selected to participate in StemForce.
How did you learn about the StemForce programme?
When I was in Grade 8 at H.O. Nash Junior High School, a recruiter from StemForce visited and invited students to apply for their summer programme held in the US. I was immediately interested because I love science, geology and the environment.
What were the requirements to apply?
I had to submit an application, my report card and an essay on why I wanted to be involved. I went above and beyond the requirements by including copies of my science certificates and a photo of my trophy case. I was so happy when I learned I was accepted!
Tell us more about your experience in StemForce.
During the programme, we visit various locations and study science topics. We are tested daily and at the end of the summer, there is an overall test. We have to score at least 80 percent to be invited to return the next summer. I have scored an A grade each summer!
I have attended sessions in: Austin, Texas, where we studied rock types; Arizona, where we studied land formations, layers of sedimentary rocks and the development of beaches and sand dunes; and Portland, Oregon, where we studied volcanoes. I got to see an entire lake made of obsidian; it was beautiful because it looked like a huge black glass!
What has being a part of StemForce helped you develop or learn?
I’m shy around new people, but these programmes [FOCUS and StemForce] have helped me develop people skills. I met new people and broadened my horizons, gained knowledge on important scientific issues and narrowed down my career choice.
What advice do you have for students who want to explore science but may be afraid?
Science can be difficult because there is so much information; but if you have a passion for it, work hard, view tutorials on YouTube, and join science programmes at school, you will be just fine.
StemForce Bahamas started in 2015 when Geoforce, an outreach programme of The Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas at Austin, partnered with the Bahamas Ministry of Education.
To select just the right students for this tuition-free, four-year summer programme, applicants had to go through a competitive process. Qualifications to be considered for StemForce included being a top performing Grade 9 student with at least a 90 percent average in core classes. Students had to also demonstrate interest by writing an essay outlining how they believed the programme would contribute to their career goals.
The programme ambitiously seeks to help students master complex geology and science concepts, gain exposure to college style learning and experience personal growth. StemForce participants have been testing their own limits each summer in The Bahamas and throughout Texas, Arizona, Utah and Oregon. Every day students independently managed their schedules, waking up on their own, preparing for intense 15-16 hour learning days and setting time to study. Being so far from home taught many to push their own boundaries and discover a new realm of capability.
Advanced principles were introduced daily such as the Law of Superposition, differential erosion, plate tectonics and volcano processes, crossbedding and much, much more. Summers began with a pre-test and each day ended with a test on material covered that day.
Although it’s been challenging work, students have loved learning up close in breathtaking locations that have included famous canyons, national parks and even craters. But most importantly, the students have demonstrated dramatic leaps in knowledge with pre-tests scores on topics averaging 43 percent and post-test scores soaring to an average of 83 percent.
When surveyed by StemForce, all students reported they plan to attend college, cited enjoying team building activities and expressed undeniable excitement about beginning their final StemForce summer.
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14 February, 2019
Creating The Next Generation Of Problem Solvers
Technical and Vocational Education also involves transferable skills through academic study, as the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute explains.
A huge part of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) involves academics that focus on being innovative and solving problems. Simply put: TVET is not solely hands on.
The very nature of TVET integrates Math and Science concepts into the instruction. In fact, Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) are integral in preparing students for TVET, which transfers into 21st century skills. Such skills bolster the country’s human capital, which in turn has the ability to turn economies around.
Some students choose TVET because they expect plenty of hands-on experience. However, before gaining experience in a laboratory or workshop, they must possess basic Math and English skills – transferable skills, no matter the career path.
Read Full Story7 January, 2019
Succeeding at UB, what does it take?
Le’Andra Mackey’s determination to become a medical doctor, specializing in anesthesiology, remains resolute. That determination is demonstrated by her fervent studies to maintain a 3.5 GPA in her biology and chemistry classes. Just like an anesthesiologist constantly monitoring blood flow, breath and the heartbeat of a patient undergoing surgery, Mackey’s current rhythm of classes, rigorous study and volunteerism keeps her focused and driven.
The eighteen year-old high flyer from Government High School, who is the first in her family to attend university, was awarded a $40,000, four-year scholarship and inducted into the prestigious University of The Bahamas (UB) President’s Scholars Programme (PSP). In her first year, she’s thriving in all aspects of university life, but not without sacrifices. When asked what it takes to succeed in university, she reflected and said, “time management is the key. I create a weekly schedule where I allot time to complete assignments and study which is usually between Mondays and Fridays. I reserve my weekends for community service and volunteer work which I usually do with the Rotaract Club.”
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Press Releases
8 May, 2025
Lyford Cay Foundations and The King’s Foundation Undertake Two (2) Days of Meetings With Stakeholders launching the New Peter George Goulandris Scholarship Programme and there is still time to apply!
(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – The Lyford Cay Foundations were delighted to host senior leaders from The King’s Foundation, UK, last month to launch a new Building Crafts Scholarship, The Peter George Goulandris Heritage Scholarship. This will enable Bahamians with an interest in areas such as carpentry, masonry, roofing and plastering, to study in the UK at … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations and The King’s Foundation Undertake Two (2) Days of Meetings With Stakeholders launching the New Peter George Goulandris Scholarship Programme and there is still time to apply!
24 February, 2025
Lyford Cay Foundations Award 16 Community Grants to Impact More than 1,000 Youth
$84,500 Invested in After-School Programming (NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – Lyford Cay Foundations have awarded sixteen (16) grants to community-based organisations that are creating educational opportunities for more than 1,000 students throughout The Bahamas. In its most recent grant cycle, the Foundations are investing $84,500 in after-school programming that will impact youth on eleven islands. Through the … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations Award 16 Community Grants to Impact More than 1,000 Youth
4 February, 2025
Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts Celebrates 20 Years
(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – The Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts programme recently celebrated 20 years of service to The Bahamas. The scholarship programme is among Lyford Cay Foundations most recognised awards and was established in memory of philanthropist Mr. Harry C. Moore in 2004. Moore was an avid lover of the arts who … Read full story Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts Celebrates 20 Years
Sir John Templeton Memorial ScholarsInspiring New Ways to Uncover Human Potential
The Sir John Templeton Memorial Scholarship (SJTMS) was established with Lyford Cay Foundations in 2023 to honour Sir John’s timeless legacy and to inspire innovation in the next generation of Bahamians. Currently, SJTMS makes three (3) scholarships available annually to deserving graduate candidates pursuing degrees in sciences and humanities. The scholarship reflects the uniqueness and … Read full story Sir John Templeton Memorial ScholarsInspiring New Ways to Uncover Human Potential
17 January, 2025
LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS’ SCHOLARSHIP PORTAL OPENS
(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – Lyford Cay Foundations’ online scholarship application portal opens on Friday, February 14th. For consideration, applications must be submitted online at www.lyfordcayfoundations.org by the deadline of March 15th, 2025 at 5 pm. For hundreds of Bahamians, many of whom are now leaders in their sectors, applying for a Lyford Cay Foundations scholarship was … Read full story LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS’ SCHOLARSHIP PORTAL OPENS
16 January, 2025
Lyford Cay Foundations Celebrates 2024 Successes at Holiday Reception
Nassau, The Bahamas – Nearly 200 guests gathered at Lyford Cay Foundations’ annual holiday reception at Lyford Cay Club on Friday, December 27, 2024. Current Scholars, alumni, grantees, FOCUS students, board members, government officials and donors convened for the much-anticipated celebration. Fred Perpall, a two-time Lyford Cay Foundations Alumni Scholar (1995 and 1997), gave the … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations Celebrates 2024 Successes at Holiday Reception
19 November, 2024
LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS ANNOUNCES ITS 2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
32 New Scholars Named in Fields That Will Benefit The Bahamas. Lyford Cay Foundations is pleased to announce the awarding of thirty-two (32) new scholarships to deserving Bahamians, all of whom are studying at universities around the world in fields that will directly benefit The Bahamas. Reflecting global trends, the Foundations noted an increase in … Read full story LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS ANNOUNCES ITS 2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
31 October, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations Awards Two New Grants
Non-Profits Receive Grants to Bolster Programmes for At-Risk Youth (NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – Lyford Cay Foundations has awarded community grants to the Zonta Club of New Providence and to The Family: People Helping People Project. Both organisations were awarded funding to support their critical work in issues affecting at-risk youth. Zonta Club of New Providence was … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations Awards Two New Grants
11 April, 2024
LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS Is “FOCUSing On The Whole Bahamas”
50 For 50 Initiative to Create Unique Opportunity for Family Island Students
(NASSAU, BAHAMAS) – In celebration of The Bahamas’ 50th anniversary, Lyford Cay Foundations is launching 50 FOR 50, a unique week-long opportunity for students from selected Family Island schools to experience FOCUS, the Foundations’ renowned academic enrichment programme … Read full story LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS Is “FOCUSing On The Whole Bahamas”
20 February, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations Expands LEAP
New Partnership with St. Andrew’s International School and E.P. Roberts Primary School to Combat Learning Loss Nassau, Bahamas – While most of society has recovered from the devastation of the pandemic, many Bahamian students are still dealing with learning loss in critical areas. LEAP (Learning Environment to Accelerate Progress), an innovative programme by Lyford Cay … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations Expands LEAP
15 February, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations participates in University of The Bahamas’ Meet the Donors and Scholars Celebration
Nassau, The Bahamas – At the Meet the Donors and Scholars Celebration held at the University of The Bahamas, Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, Executive Director of Lyford Cay Foundations brought remarks. The Celebration took place in the Harry C. Moore Library which holds a special place in the hearts of the Foundations as the late Mr. … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations participates in University of The Bahamas’ Meet the Donors and Scholars Celebration
13 February, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations pays tribute to late Board Member Tim Unwin
Lyford Cay Foundations mourns the loss of Mr. Tim Unwin, former chairman of The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation, who died peacefully at his home in Canada on Friday, 9th February, 2024. Mr. Unwin loved the work of Lyford Cay Foundations and was committed to improving the lives of the people of The Bahamas. He was … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations pays tribute to late Board Member Tim Unwin
24 January, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations’ Scholarship Portal OPENS on February 1st, 2024
Undergraduate, Graduate and Technical Scholarships Available Nassau, The Bahamas – Lyford Cay Foundations’ online scholarship application portal opens on February 1st. For consideration, applications need to be submitted online at www.lyfordcayfoundations.org by the deadline of March 15th, 2024 at 5 pm. For hundreds of Lyford Cay Foundations’ Scholars contributing to The Bahamas across all sectors, … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations’ Scholarship Portal OPENS on February 1st, 2024
17 January, 2024
Lyford Cay Foundations Celebrates 2023 Successes at Holiday Reception
Nassau, The Bahamas – Nearly 200 guests gathered at Lyford Cay Foundations’ annual holiday reception at Lyford Cay Club on December 29, 2023. Current Scholars, alumni, grantees, FOCUS students, board members, government officials and donors convened for the much-anticipated celebration. Basil Goulandris, Chairman of Lyford Cay Foundations, gave opening remarks expressing appreciation for the hard … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations Celebrates 2023 Successes at Holiday Reception
13 June, 2022
Lyford Cay Foundations pays tribute to late Board member Loretta Anne Rogers
Lyford Cay Foundations was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Loretta Anne Rogers, Director and former Chairperson of The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation. Mrs. Rogers, 83, passed away on Saturday 11th of June 2022 in Toronto, Canada. She was a committed friend of The Bahamas, a long-term member of the Lyford Cay … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations pays tribute to late Board member Loretta Anne Rogers
10 May, 2022
Lyford Cay Foundations launches LEAP
NASSAU, The Bahamas - As a part of our strategy to address learning loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic and school disruptions, Lyford Cay Foundations has launched a new education enrichment initiative for selected public school students in grades one to four. LEAP (Learning Enrichment to Accelerate Progress) is an educational pilot programme that offers … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations launches LEAP
25 January, 2022
Lyford Cay Foundations announces new graduate and technical scholarships programme
NEW PROVIDENCE, The Bahamas, 25 January 2022 – The Lyford Cay Foundations (LCF) announces the launch of the “Resilience and Excellence Bahamas Education Programme,” a new scholarship initiative focused on graduate and technical studies in Canada. Over a four-year period, the Programme will provide for a total of 10 graduate and 10 technical scholarships to … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations announces new graduate and technical scholarships programme
20 January, 2022
Lyford Cay Foundations’ FOCUS programme moving ahead swiftly to assist students with learning recovery amid learning disruptions
Lyford Cay Foundations is doing its part to assist in learning recovery in The Bahamas by intensifying one of its signature education programmes, FOCUS, to help meet the needs of students in a challenging COVID-19 environment. For more than 10 years, Lyford Cay Foundations has been engaging young people in the public school system across … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations’ FOCUS programme moving ahead swiftly to assist students with learning recovery amid learning disruptions
10 September, 2021
Nearly 1/3 of all Lyford Cay Foundations 2021 scholarships go to technical training
The desire to possess job-ready technical skills may have hit a new high with nearly one third of this year’s Lyford Cay Foundation scholarship winners opting to earn a technical degree. The Foundations awarded 26 new scholarships this term to students pursuing a diverse range of studies in Canada and the United States. This year, … Read full story Nearly 1/3 of all Lyford Cay Foundations 2021 scholarships go to technical training
19 July, 2021
Abaco Students Thank Lyford Cay Foundations for Helping Rebuild Central Abaco Primary School
With hand-painted signs held high, students at Central Abaco Primary School welcomed representatives of the Lyford Cay and Canadian Lyford Cay Foundations, thanking them for generous donations that helped rebuild the school destroyed by Hurricane Dorian. It was a celebration nearly two years in the making. “We were so touched and moved to see what … Read full story Abaco Students Thank Lyford Cay Foundations for Helping Rebuild Central Abaco Primary School
10 May, 2021
600+ Apply for Lyford Cay Foundations Scholarships
For immediate release on or after May 10, 2021 COVID-19 turned the world upside down, closing schools to in-person learning, shutting down tourism and forcing countries to ramp up healthcare operations. But there is one thing it did not dampen – Bahamian students’ desire to go to college. More than 600 applicants in The Bahamas … Read full story 600+ Apply for Lyford Cay Foundations Scholarships
23 April, 2021
Lyford Cay Foundations to Build Partnerships with Historic Kemp Road Community
For Immediate Release on or after April 23, 2021 With the recent tragedy impacting the Kemp Road community still fresh, Lyford Cay Foundations today met with influential civic leaders and announced plans to form partnerships that will develop and showcase the potential of the historic community’s young people. The initiative to build results-oriented partnerships was … Read full story Lyford Cay Foundations to Build Partnerships with Historic Kemp Road Community
4 March, 2021
NEW LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENCES WORK
For Immediate Release Lyford Cay Foundations is pleased to announce that Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle commenced her tenure as Executive Director on Monday 1st March, 2021.As Executive Director, Dr. Virgill-Rolle will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Foundations, guiding the ongoing partnerships, outreach and programmes and working with the Boards of Directors to further … Read full story NEW LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENCES WORK
2 December, 2020
Executive Director Selection
For Immediate Release The Boards of Directors of the Lyford Cay Foundation Inc. (LCF), and the Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation (CLCF) are pleased to announce that Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle will become the next Executive Director for Lyford Cay Foundations. LCF Chairman, Basil P. Goulandris underscored, “Dr. Virgill-Rolle is the quintessential leader for Lyford Cay Foundations. … Read full story Executive Director Selection
1 December, 2020
Honouring 50 years of philanthropy
LYFORD CAY FOUNDATIONS HONOURS 50 YEARS OF PHILANTHROPY IN THE BAHAMAS For Immediate Release 2020 has not provided many opportunities to celebrate. With so much uncertainty and scarcity of good news, this week Lyford Cay Foundations honors the impact of the generosity of its donors over the past five decades. At its core, Lyford Cay … Read full story Honouring 50 years of philanthropy
26 November, 2019
50th Anniversary – Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving
For many Bahamians, [the] Lyford Cay Foundations has been and continues to be the place they can turn to “knock and have the door of opportunity opened” to them. As the Foundations came together to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a service of thanksgiving, Catholic Archbishop Patrick Pinder said the Bahamian public was grateful to … Read full story 50th Anniversary – Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving
22 July, 2019
FOCUSED
Eight years ago, Carmetta Barry said she happily ran to the FOCUS (Forward and Onward to College, Upward to Success) bus for the first time not knowing what to expect. She recalled experiencing a number of emotions – the most dominant, fright. But as she walked onto that bus, she said, she was welcomed by … Read full story FOCUSED
7 April, 2019
A College education is worth every penny!
By Selvin I. Basden Director of Human Resources & Training, Bahamasair Holdings, Inc. and past recipient of a Lyford Cay Foundations’ scholarship. It feels like only yesterday that I walked across the stage at Lincoln University to collect my college diploma. It was 1996 and I had just completed my lorem ipsum dolor sit. Fusce … Read full story A College education is worth every penny!
14 March, 2019
So who should go to college? Everyone!
When you’re at the top of your high school class and your parents are college graduates, college often seems like the next natural step after graduation. For many of us, education after high school isn’t even a thought. Or, if it is, it’s a dream that’s quickly tossed away once we consider the challenge of … Read full story So who should go to college? Everyone!
