Pine Forge Academy Debuts Ambassador Program

Freshman William Mattox accepts his first place award during PFA's Ambassador Awards program.

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

During the fourth annual “Handy Hall and Friends Weekend” at Pine Forge Academy (PFA), the boys dormitory staff and dean debuted their new Ambassador Awards program.

The program at the Pine Forge, Pa., based high school is designed to promote leadership, creativity and character development in African-American young men.

“We want our young men to understand that it’s not just about having exposure to godly principles, but that they should learn to embody and showcase them to guarantee success,” says Jaymie Pottinger, head dean of the boys dorm.

During the qualifying round, each candidate submitted a dorm-enhancing project that they were expected to plan and execute during their tenure. Top ideas included community service projects, starting a band, developing a fitness club, starting a mentoring program and instituting spirit days.

The five finalists competed in the three remaining categories—talent, dress and impromptu question—at the Handy Hall Banquet.

At the conclusion of the competition, freshman William Mattox was crowned first place winner. He received a cash prize of $500.