Darius Humphries and Paul Vallas

As a Business Academy student at Strawberry Mansion High School, Darius Humphries received honors for both his academic and athletic prowess. He was a member of both the varsity baseball and basketball teams, where he was named Academic-Athletic player of the year. He also participated in the mentally gifted program and Upward Bound at the University of Pennsylvania, and is listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students.

Success did not come easy, however. Darius has had a difficult family life. He comes from a background of crime, drugs, poverty, and, at times, homelessness. Now, through the support of the Academy program and his teachers, and his own perseverance, focus and drive, he is on his way to college. As a result of his accomplishments, Darius was chosen as the recipient of the 2003 Richard de Lone scholarship, awarded each year to the Academy student who has shown the most improvement while in the program, as well as a strong commitment to serving the community.

“I am grateful to the Academies and school staff who have been a great supporting cast to my achievements – always encouraging me to take the road less traveled,” says Darius. “I am nervous and excited for what lies ahead.”
— Darius

Through the financial and volunteer support of hundreds of organizations, the Academies, Inc. provides exposure to the world beyond high school for thousands of students like Darius.

David Schwartz, Vice President with The Glenmede Trust Company and Chairman of the Business Academy Board of Governors during 2003-04, has been active in supporting the Academies. Glenmede has hosted student tours of their Center City office, participated in the practice interview program, provided student achievement awards, and, through the dedicated service of Mr. Schwartz, provided an active presence on the Business Academy Board of Governors since 1997.

Darius Humphries is now a 2004 graduate on a mission. This fall Darius heads off to Kutztown University on a full scholarship where he plans to study communications. His long-term goal is to continue his studies in graduate school to obtain his Masters of Business Administration.