PS High School Students Explore Washington D.C. With the Minnesota Vikings While Discovering What Identity and Legacy Mean for Them

This June, fifteen high school students selected by principals from each of our partner Minneapolis Public Schools embarked on an experience to the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington D.C.. Students were selected by school leadership based on who would gain the most from this transformative experience. This trip, in partnership with the Minnesota Vikings, Delta Airlines, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), is part of Project Success’ Expeditions programming, which includes adventures that expose diverse opportunities to colleges, nature settings, and international cities. We know that getting out of day-to-day comfort zones will expose new opportunities, worlds, and ways to thrive. Thanks to our partners, this trip was offered at no cost to the students.

This trip gives students the opportunity to dive deeper into understanding their own identity and culture, while learning about themselves and others. Students learned more about African American history at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) and attended a tour of Howard University, which provides crucial insights into the significance of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States. Before visiting the NMAAHC, our travelers spent time sharing expectations and potential insights from the museum. Afterward, everyone, including PS students, PS staff, and Vikings players and staff engaged in an open and non-judgmental processing session, where they shared their most impactful learnings. This sharing of experiences is often a highlight of this annual trip, fostering connection and deeper understanding among the participants.

Project Success takes pride in empowering students to define the meaning of these experiences for themselves. As they explore these significant places, tour Washington D.C. monuments and memorials, and participate in PS workshops throughout the trip, they are encouraged to ask questions, process their thoughts, and relate learnings to their own identities. During workshops students were encouraged to connect with each other and also mentally navigate their experience in either facilitated workshops or in their own time of what they learned.

Laura Garcia, Senior Director of Programs – Minneapolis, shared “this year’s group was a harmonious blend of students who knew how to balance independence and collaboration. Throughout the trip, they found moments to process their experiences alone, or with their peers. This healthy appreciation for one another created an environment of mutual support and camaraderie, setting the stage for a unique and unforgettable adventure.”

The support from the Minnesota Vikings and Delta Airlines is instrumental in making this transformative journey possible. Each student was surprised with a scholarship of $1,000 to use towards their post-secondary education, removing financial barriers and empowering them to pursue their dreams.

As one Heritage High School student shared, “I had such an amazing time on the trip. It was so much fun and I made so many great memories. So happy I’ve gotten to meet you guys!! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have gone on it. I’m literally so appreciative for the $1000 scholarship. It means a lot to me and will help me achieve my academic and career goals. Thank you again for your generosity…”

With the support of our partners, community, volunteers, and staff, Project Success continues to provide programming that helps students connect to their purpose and plan for their futures. The Washington D.C. trip stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the value of understanding history, embracing diversity, and creating lasting connections that bridge generations and communities.