Brotherhood. Legacy. Celebration. The 2026 EOY Alumni Induction - A Weekend Years in the Making.

May 29-30, 2026 | Garden City Hotel | Garden City, NY.

This weekend was a powerful reminder of what happens when Black and Latino male educators commit to one another, to leadership, and to a vision larger than themselves. The relationships built in this fellowship have translated into promotions, stronger schools, and a deeper impact on the thousands of students and communities our fellows serve every day.

More than 30 brothers came together for a powerful weekend of personal growth, leadership development, and meaningful connection—and the impact was undeniable. Every fellow rated the retreat as either Valuable or Very Valuable, with an incredible 91% selecting Very Valuable. When asked how likely they were to recommend the experience to a prospective fellow, 29 of 34 fellows gave it a perfect 10 out of 10, while the remaining 5 rated it a 9. But the real story goes beyond the numbers: fellows described the retreat as transformative—strengthening them professionally, challenging them personally, and renewing them emotionally. This retreat was a catalyst for growth, brotherhood, and lasting impact.

🌹“The relationships that I have developed with other men of color has been amazing. True and honest fellowship. This fellowship really has changed my life and molded my career in a way that I could have never imagined possible.”

🌹“This weekend was the culmination of a two-year program that has been the catalyst for me to grow as a proud black male leader in education.”

🌹“My purpose has been redefined, and I'm grateful to be connected to men who want to improve education in America.” 

🌹“Thanks, fellas. My life has changed because of this fellowship.”

The 2026 National Fellowship for Black and Latino Male Educators (NFBLME) Alumni Weekend brought together the trailblazing 2021 National Cohort, the graduating 2024 and 2025 National Cohorts, and alumni from across the country for a powerful weekend of reflection, recognition, and restoration. Hosted in the Red Rose Room at the Garden City Hotel, the gathering opened with fellowship and NFBLME's signature Rose & Concrete Ceremony—a powerful tradition where participants reflected on the challenges they have overcome (the concrete) and the growth, victories, and leadership they have cultivated despite them (the rose). The ceremony created space for vulnerability, authenticity, and connection, setting the tone for a weekend rooted in brotherhood and purpose. Old friendships picked up where they left off, new connections were forged, and the stories of impact created over the past several years filled every conversation.

Saturday centered on wellness, leadership, and sustainability through a series of dynamic wellness workshop sessions. Professor Carlos Davila led "Dose of Loss: Holistic Wellness for Men of Color," challenging participants to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. Brandon Taylor (2021 NFBLME Alumni) facilitated "AI as an Executive Asset: Lead More. Carry Less," demonstrating how leaders can leverage artificial intelligence to increase effectiveness and reduce unnecessary burdens. Regis Bingham delivered the WealthWave Financial Literacy Bootcamp, equipping participants with practical strategies for building long-term financial security and generational wealth. Dr. Willie Brewster's session, "Practical Strategies for Sustainable Success," where participants explored practical approaches to preventing burnout, protecting their energy, and leading with greater balance. The weekend's signature leadership moment came during a powerful presentation by Dr. Andre Townsel, who challenged attendees to set the bar, meet the bar, exceed the bar, and raise the bar. At the conclusion of his remarks, NFBLME honored Dr. Townsel with the prestigious Rose From Concrete Award, recognizing a career defined by resilience, excellence, and transformational impact.

The weekend concluded with one of NFBLME's most meaningful traditions—the Alumni Brotherhood Induction Ceremony. Members of the graduating 2024 and 2025 Cohorts officially transitioned from fellows to alumni, joining a national network of leaders committed to supporting one another for years to come. Before their induction, each participant publicly shared ambitious one-year leadership goals, creating a powerful sense of accountability and purpose as they prepared for their next chapter. The moment served as both a celebration of their accomplishments and a challenge to continue leading with intention and impact.

While leadership development remained at the center of the experience, the weekend also made space for restoration and joy. Participants recharged through wellness experiences, including professional massages and an evening of fellowship at the casino. By the close of the weekend, the symbolism was unmistakable: the 2021 Cohort represented the foundation of the movement, while the 2024 and 2025 Cohorts represented its future. Together, they embodied the enduring mission of NFBLME—developing leaders, strengthening brotherhood, and building a legacy that will continue to impact generations of educators and students. 🌹