Stand Up for Education: Ron’Neal’s Story
As a high school sophomore, Ron’Neal Flippins sought to build community as he transitioned from public school to homeschooling. Through his cousin, he was introduced to Project Ready, the Louisville Urban League’s afterschool program for high school students. Project Ready endeavors to help prepare students for higher education through college visits, intensive tutoring, interpersonal skills training, and academic coaching. Ron’Neal joined and soon found himself looking forward to the weekly meetings where he established a core group of friends and gained valuable information for his future.
Through Project Ready, he expanded his worldview through visits to HBCU schools: Morehouse, Clark Atlanta, and North Carolina A&T. He also participated in ACT prep courses that helped him improve his standardized test scores. Ron’Neal credits program mentor, Anthony Huskey, for helping him navigate future career pathways and providing real guidance as someone who came from a similar background.
Following graduation, Ron’Neal received the Louisville Urban League Scholarship, awarded to a JCPS senior who can articulate an understanding and commitment to equity and social justice in their future academic and professional pursuits at the Annual Urban League Guild Scholarship Brunch. He said, “I’m thankful for the scholarship because college is expensive and that money directly helped pay for my education.”
Ron’Neal is now a freshman at Bellarmine University. He is enjoying his time in college, meeting new people, experiencing life on his own while living in the dorms, and adjusting to adulthood. He stated that the program prepared him for college through peer support and mentorship, and his experiences have directly impacted his success. He knows that if any obstacle should occur, he can reach out to the Urban League and feels comfortable asking for help.
Ron’Neal Flippins, Project Ready student
Project Ready helps prepare high school students for college by completing college coaching assessments, practicing professional skills, and exploring college options. The students’ participation in the program equips them with the ability to be resilient and find success in their academic and professional pursuits. For more information, visit lul.org/education or call (502) 585-4622.
