By Amanda Moses
Frederick Douglass Academy (FDA) VIII embraces the motto “What is possible for you is possible for me,” and this is exemplified with their alumni who have gone on to pursue higher education and professions.
The middle school prides itself on creating an academic environment that fosters volunteerism, diversity, and initiative, which they often share news of on their Instagram page. This year, staff have made sure to highlight alumni who’ve returned to the school for a visit and shared their accomplishments since graduating.
Malick Duncan graduated in 2010, where he then attended Medical Professionals High School in Canarsie. As he prepares to embark on his next venture, he shares that it was a sports injury that inspired him to pursue a career in physical therapy.
Kristin Ofori-Kuragu graduated in 2019, and then attended Clara Barton High School. She became passionate about providing quality medical care and decided to study to become a Licensed Nurse Practioner. Ofori-Kuragu is now studying nursing at Hunter College and is anticipated to earn her degree in 2027.
Lysander Ofori-Kuragu, elder brother to Kristin, graduated in 2015. He attended Murray Bergtraum High School for Business Careers and did so well in school that he graduated early. Ofori-Kuragu attended Queens College at first, but then transferred to Brooklyn College where he majored in finance and created a vending machine business. Ofori-Kuragu is also a substitute teacher at FDA VIII and tries to instill the lessons he learned throughout his academic and professional career.
Elijah Salisbury graduated in 2019 and then attended Brooklyn College Academy High School followed by SUNY Albany. Salisbury earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and now works with the non-profit Campaign Zero with DeRay McKesson, a former math teacher at FDA VIII.
FDA VIII’s rigorous academic curriculum is the foundation of a bigger educational structure that invites students to create long lasting relationships that go beyond graduation and into future endeavors where they can pave the way for great opportunities.
Photos courtesy of FDA VIII
