Helping to inspire the youth of today, Bobbi Brown returned Jane Addams High School for Academic Careers to meet with faculty and students to work on strategies for continuing improvements to the school.
On Thursday, October 15 Brown, CEO of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and internationally renowned cosmetologist, traveled to 900 Tinton Avenue to kick off the yearlong partnership during the Principal for a Day celebration.
Brown has been a partner with the school through the PENCIL Partnership Program since 2001, bringing to the institution generous funding and numerous resources.
“Jane Addams really is a well-kept secret and it really is the partnerships we have that let us succeed and put us above the rest,” said Sharron Smalls, principal
Though Brown’s efforts the school has a state-of-the-art salon in which to learn and has a renovated and well-supported LYFE Center, which helps teen parents attain a full education.
“The more you give in life, the more you get back,” said Brown. “I love being part of Principal for a Day because it allows me to interact with the students and Principal Smalls, and each year when I return, I get to see the progress they’ve made and how they’ve excelled in the various programs. It’s a very rewarding experience.”
Brown spent time in the classrooms to discuss her past with students, providing guidance and advice while answering questions.
“It’s great for students to have this connection with the real world and someone who is big in business and cosmetology,” said Smalls. “They see something tangible, see options, and it motivates them to get into the field and excel.”
Additionally, Brown has awarded college-bound students from Jane Addams with scholarships and has collected donations and supplies for the school. This winter she will be giving away a $15,000 scholarship for a contest on ‘what they find beautiful.’
“When you walk the halls of Jane Addams, you feel a sense of pride and passion, and that is a huge result of the passion and dedication that the teachers, staff, and specifically Principal Smalls has for the school and students,” said Brown.
The event marks the 15th Annual Principal for a Day for PENCIL and is the beginning of the yearlong partnership meant to improve and inspire schools by bringing in new ideas and resources.
“For the past 15 years we have created different ways and opportunities for people to get involved,” said Michael Haberman, president of PENCIL. “Many of these corporate leaders realize that an enhanced education is essential because these children are the future of this city and of this country.”
