Sasha Oglesby, a participant in Women of the Dream, Inc. (WOD), was accepted into Simmons University as a member of the Class of 2029.
WOD, a nonprofit organization based in Camden, New Jersey, coordinates and implements services for girls in grades 7–12 within the city and other underserved communities. Through educational partnerships, cultural enrichment opportunities, scholarship programs, and beyond, WOD empowers and prepares young women for college and future careers.
In 2023, Oglesby embarked upon a pivotal trip to Boston with four other students, led by Leslie Morris ’75, WOD Founder and CEO. At the University’s annual Black Alumnae/i Symposium, “Sasha showcased her vocal talent by singing the Black national anthem. It was a defining moment in her journey,” WOD reported.
As Oglesby recounts, “I fell in love with Boston and with Simmons and knew I wanted to go back there one day.” Through her own tenacity and mentorship from WOD, Oglesby persevered. When she later shared her acceptance letter with Morris, they both cried with joy.
“I can retire now, knowing the dream lives on,” Morris reflected. “Well, we’ll see!”
Watch Sasha Oglesby sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at Simmons.