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IN THIS ISSUE:News Room: Catch up on recent press and exciting announcements. Upcoming Events: Don’t miss out on exciting events! Mark your calendars and join us in making an impact. Nominate for Upcoming Program: Do you know someone who would benefit from our programs? Nominate them today! Get Involved: Join the movement! Discover volunteer opportunities and ways to partner with STS to make a difference. I AM STS Podcast: Tune in to the latest episodes that inspire and empower. STS Student Spotlight: Celebrate the achievements of our outstanding students making waves in their careers and communities. STS Coaches Spotlight Meet the incredible volunteers who help drive the STS mission forward. Shop Online: Show your support with STS merchandise!
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| STS Receives Major Career Readiness InvestmentA huge thank you to BlueScope Buildings North America, a Kansas City-based company, for awarding STS funding to grow our Career Exploration and Workforce Readiness programming in Memphis. This investment will help us reach more students, provide new experiences, and expand our city’s talent pipeline. |
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| STS Named “Mentor Partner of the Year” by IOTA Community School
We are honored to be selected as the “Mentorship Partner of the Year” by IOTA Community School! This recognition reflects the strength of our partnership and the impact we’ve made together this year. Through our Real Estate Aspiring Leaders (REAL) Program, we provided IOTA students with access and exposure to real estate careers—introducing them to an industry many had never considered and building their confidence to explore bold futures “This award isn’t just about STS. It’s about what happens when young people are seen, supported, and given space to grow.” Thank you, IOTA, for trusting us with your students and for being a valued partner in this work. |
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More Than a Makeover: Beautifying Hillcrest with Purpose and PrideSTS partnered with the Greater Memphis Chamber Young Professionals Council (YPC) and the Memphis Urban League of Young Professionals (MULYP) for a school beautification project at Hillcrest High School. Together, we transformed the space into one that reflects the pride, power, and potential of every student who walks through those halls. “This effort was about more than fresh paint and a cleaned-out closet—it was about reminding students that they matter, lightening the load for school staff, and uniting young professionals around a shared purpose: service to our community.” |
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Career Exploration in ActionFreedom Prep’s Student Media Team recently visited V2 Media, one of Memphis’ top production companies, to witness a live shoot and learn the behind-the-scenes magic. This real-world experience gave students hands-on exposure to careers in media and content creation. “I want to work in media one day… now I know what it looks like from the inside.” — FPA Student |
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Nomination for Upcoming ProgrammingKnow a Student Who's Ready to Level Up? Nominate Them Today!
We’re accepting nominations for the upcoming STS Senior Experience and STRIVE cohorts. If you know a student with passion, grit, and leadership potential, help them get connected. |
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Middle/High School StudentsEmpowering high school students with leadership, career exploration, and essential life skills to prepare for a successful future. |
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| College StudentsOur collegiate program designed to develop future leaders through mentorship, professional development, and experiential learning opportunities. |
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| Senior ExperienceA tailored program for college seniors, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate the transition from college to career. |
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| Real Estate Aspiring LeadersHands-on program introducing students to real estate fundamentals, career pathways, and professional connections in the industry. |
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Join the 1% Club: Open a Door. Change a LifeEach year, professionals spend over 2,000 hours at work. We’re asking you to give just 1% of that time—21 hours a year—to help students explore careers and prepare for the workforce. At STS, we believe exposure leads to opportunity. That’s why we’re challenging community members, leaders, and professionals to join our 1% Club and: Share your career journey during a school or student session Host a mock interview or resume review Let a student shadow you or tour your workplace Simply talk to a young person about what you do and how you got there
Your time can help a student believe that yes—it’s possible for them too. “I’m part of the 1% that shows up—because students deserve to see what’s possible. |
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🎙️ I AM STS Podcast – Episode 18College Hit Me HARD: I Thought I Was Smarter Than EVERYONE!
In our latest episode, STS Alum Jermel Johnson keeps it 100 about his transition into college life. From thinking he had it all figured out to realizing college had a whole different playbook, this episode is packed with real-life lessons, laughter, and the truth no one tells you about freshman year. Tune in to hear: The reality check he didn’t see coming What he wishes he knew before stepping on campus Why mindset matters more than you think Lessons learned outside the classroom The power of humility and persistence
Whether you're excited, nervous, or somewhere in between—this episode will get you right.
📲 Check out “College Hit Me HARD!” now on the I AM STS Podcast — available wherever you listen! |
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On the Move: Destinee Woods Joins AutoZone as Summer 2025 Process Improvement Intern
This month, We’re incredibly proud to spotlight Destinee Woods, who recently secured a 2025 Summer Internship with AutoZone as a Process Improvement Intern!
This exciting opportunity marks a major milestone in Destinee’s academic and professional journey. Known for her tenacity, curiosity, and commitment to growth, Destinee continues to set the standard for what it means to be STS Strong. In her upcoming role at AutoZone, she will gain hands-on experience in operations and process improvement, a critical area for any aspiring professional interested in organizational excellence and innovation. |
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Meet STS Coach Wendolyn Payne who is empowering students with Passion and PurposeWendolyn Payne brings unmatched energy and commitment to her role as a Coach for the STS Elite Program. A proud native of Memphis and seasoned HR professional, Wendolyn's journey is one of resilience, community, and a relentless desire to pour into the next generation. After meeting the STS founders over a decade ago, she joined as a coach during the pandemic and has been pouring into students ever since. As a Coach, Wendolyn is helping college students turn their goals into action. Her passion lies in holding students accountable, not just to others, but to themselves. |
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Get Your STS Crewneck & Step into Spring in Style!Spring is here, and there’s no better way to embrace the season than by repping STS in style! Our STS Crewneck comes in a variety of colors and is the perfect go-to for those breezy spring days—whether you’re headed to a meeting, on campus, attending an event, or simply out making excellence the norm! Best of all, 100% of apparel proceeds go directly to supporting STS students. Your purchase isn’t just a style upgrade—it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders! Get yours today and stay STS Fresh this season! |
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