Guest Speaker Spotlight: EOP at MVCC
During our recent Meet the Parents Night, Utica Royalties was honored to welcome special guest speakers Susan Johnson and Jayden, who shared valuable insights about the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at Mohawk Valley Community College.
Their presentation highlighted how EOP helps students overcome economic barriers while pursuing higher education and reaching their academic goals.
The speakers explained that EOP provides students with important resources and support systems that help them succeed in college and beyond.
Key Takeaways from the Presentation
• Financial aid and academic support for eligible students
• One-on-one counseling and mentoring
• Free textbooks and career preparation assistance
• A five-week summer bridge program that helps students earn credits and prepare for college life
• Dedicated study spaces and a supportive student community
The program focuses on creating a close-knit group of students who support each other throughout their academic journey.
Eligibility Requirements
Students interested in EOP must meet several requirements, including:
• New York State residency
• Demonstrated economic need based on prior year income
• A GPA of at least 75%
• Enrollment in a degree program
Even if students are unsure whether they qualify, they are encouraged to apply. The EOP team works closely with applicants to guide them through the process.
Empowering Future Students
The presentation delivered an inspiring message for youth and families in our community: education is possible, support is available, and success is within reach.
Utica Royalties continues to connect youth and families with educational opportunities, mentorship, and resources that help build pathways to college and future careers.
Hashtags
#MVCC
#EducationalOpportunityProgram
#CommunitySupport
#StudentSuccess
#YouthEmpowerment
#UticaRoyalties
#UpstateNY
#UticaNY
#CNY
Utica Royalties Hosts Second “Meet the Parents” Night
Utica Royalties Hosts Second “Meet the Parents” Night
Utica Royalties recently welcomed families and community members for its second “Meet the Parents” Night, led by Founder and Executive Director Hawa Peters. The event brought parents, youth, and supporters together to learn more about the organization’s mission and the many opportunities available through its youth programs.
The evening highlighted Utica Royalties’ commitment to empowering youth through creativity, leadership development, education, and community connection. Families received updates on upcoming programs and events, including workshops, community activities, and educational opportunities designed to help young people grow and succeed.
During the gathering, Hawa Peters shared the story behind Utica Royalties, which was founded in 2021 during the pandemic to create a safe and supportive space for youth to express themselves and discover their talents. Since its founding, the organization has continued to expand its programs to support youth and families throughout the Utica community.
Today, Utica Royalties offers a wide range of opportunities for young people, including after-school programs, summer camps, field trips, mentorship, hygiene support initiatives, and cultural celebrations such as talent shows and holiday events. The organization also works with local partners such as Cornell University, Hamilton College, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and On Point for College to connect youth with educational and leadership opportunities.
The evening also recognized the achievements of youth participants, including James, a talented student and performer who has been part of the program since its early days. With a strong academic record and a passion for creativity and leadership, James represents the positive impact Utica Royalties continues to have on young people in the community.
From dance and poetry to public speaking and college preparation, Utica Royalties remains dedicated to supporting youth and helping them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prepare for bright futures.
Together with families and community partners, Utica Royalties continues to uplift and inspire the next generation — one confident, creative leader at a time.
Hashtags
#UticaRoyalties
#YouthEmpowerment
#YouthPrograms
#CommunitySupport
#UticaNY
#MohawkValley
#UpstateNY
#OneidaCounty
#NextGenerationLeaders
Join Us for the 4th Annual Eid Al-Fitr Community Celebration
Join Us for the 4th Annual Eid Al-Fitr Community Celebration
Utica Royalties, Inc., in partnership with the Carol L. Croombs BECA Center, warmly invites the community to join us for a special evening of joy, unity, culture, and celebration at our 4th Annual Eid Al-Fitr Community Celebration.
Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan — a time of reflection, gratitude, generosity, and spiritual growth. It is a moment when families, friends, and communities come together to celebrate, strengthen relationships, and share happiness.
This celebration is designed to bring the community together in a welcoming and family-friendly environment where people of all backgrounds can learn, connect, and celebrate cultural traditions.
📅 Date: March 21, 2026
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Location: 730 Broadway, Utica, NY
🎉 Admission: FREE & Family-Friendly – Everyone is Welcome
Guests will enjoy a variety of fun and engaging activities for all ages, including:
• Musical Chairs
• Fashion Show
• Henna Station
• Arts & Crafts
• Eid Prayer Story
• Community Giveaways
• Light Refreshments & Cultural Treats
…and much more!
This event is a wonderful opportunity for families, youth, and community members to come together, celebrate cultural traditions, and build stronger connections within the Utica community.
RSVP Today:
Register here:
https://form.jotform.com/250614492875161
For more information, please contact:
uticaroyalties@gmail.com
Volunteers are also welcome! If you would like to help support this event, please reach out to join our volunteer team.
At Utica Royalties, we are committed to creating safe spaces where youth can express their talents, celebrate their culture, and build confidence while growing into future leaders.
We look forward to celebrating with you and your family!
#UticaRoyalties
#EidCelebration
#CommunityUnity
#FamilyFriendly
#EidAlFitr2026
#UticaNY
#YouthEmpowerment
Celebrating the Grand Opening of Utica Royalties: Empowering Youth and Strengthening Our Community
Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation
At Utica Royalties, we believe youth are the future. Through mentorship, education, and community engagement, we provide safe spaces and programs that help young people grow, lead, and succeed.
We are incredibly grateful for the amazing support from our community during the Utica Royalties Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held on February 17, 2026. This special moment represents more than just the opening of a space — it represents a commitment to investing in the future of our youth and strengthening our community.
At Utica Royalties, we believe that young people deserve safe spaces where they can grow, express themselves, and discover their talents. Our programs are designed to empower youth through mentorship, cultural activities, leadership development, arts, education, and community engagement. Seeing our youth surrounded by community leaders, families, and supporters reminds us that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make this event possible. Your encouragement, time, and dedication mean so much to the young people we serve. Events like this show our youth that they are valued, supported, and capable of achieving great things.
A special thank you to Lazore Photography for capturing these meaningful moments and helping us share this milestone with the broader community. Your work allows us to preserve these memories and continue telling the story of youth empowerment in Utica.
Utica Royalties will continue working to create opportunities for young people through programs that encourage confidence, creativity, leadership, and community connection. Together, we are building a future where every young person has the opportunity to succeed and become a positive force in our community.
We look forward to continuing this journey with all of you as we grow, inspire, and empower the next generation of leaders.
#UticaRoyalties
#YouthEmpowerment
#CommunitySupport
#YouthLeadership
#UticaNY
#EmpowerTheNextGeneration