What I Learned at the 2025 Generation Next Annual Event

Written by: Abdusamad Abdo, Generation Next RightTrack Intern 

I attended the 2025 Annual Event, “Future Focus,” on February 27, 2025, at Minneapolis College. The event focused on ways to improve education and support students, especially in early childhood education, teacher diversity, and preparing students for college. Many leaders, educators, and community members attended to share their insights and experiences.

Key Highlights:

  • Guest Speaker: Commissioner Tikki Brown spoke about the new Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families. She explained how the department is working to support children and families and improve student success. It was interesting to learn about the different ways they are making a difference.
  • Panel Discussion: The event featured a great discussion with these leaders:
    • Cisa Keller, CEO of Think Small
    • Josiah Litant, Executive Director of the Minnesota P20 Education Partnership
    • Sonia Gass, CEO of Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties
    • Dr. Stacie Stanley, Incoming Superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools

They discussed how different organizations can work together to improve education and how data can help make better decisions. I liked hearing their different experiences and learning how they are working to solve challenges in education.

  • Key Topics: One of the most important topics was Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). The speakers explained how SEL helps students develop emotional skills, build confidence, and feel like they belong in school. I also learned that students who feel supported tend to do better in school.

What Stood Out to Me:

One of the most interesting topics for me was Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). It made me realize that students need more than just good grades to succeed—they need support, positive relationships, and a sense of belonging. This was eye-opening because I had never thought about how much emotions and relationships affect learning.

Another important discussion was about helping BIPOC students enter and stay in college. The BTEG (Bridging the Equity Gap) and iLEAD (Identity, Leadership, Excellence, Accountability, and Dedication) programs stood out to me. These programs provide mentorship, leadership training, and a supportive community to help students succeed. It made me think about how having the right support system can make a big difference in education.

 

My Experience:

This event taught me a lot about how schools and communities can support students, not just academically but also emotionally. It made me think about how I can contribute to education in the future, especially for students from different backgrounds.

I also liked that the event didn’t just focus on problems—it focused on real solutions. The speakers and panelists shared practical ways to improve education, which was inspiring to hear.

Attending this event was a great experience. I learned about the importance of support, mentorship, and making education more equitable for all students. It was inspiring to see so many people working hard to close the achievement gap and help students succeed.

I am grateful for the opportunity to attend this event. It has motivated me to work hard toward my goals in cybersecurity and business while also thinking about how I can help improve education for others.