A New Year’s Message of Reflection, Gratitude, and Hope

Looking Back on 2025 — Looking Ahead Together

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we welcome a new year, we pause to reflect on all that 2025 has represented for The Educational Empowerment Project, Inc. (E2P) — a year defined by growth, purpose, partnership, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our students.

Under the leadership of Virginia DeFelice, President, Founder, and Chair of the Board of Directors, E2P continues to build meaningful pathways for underprivileged youth to explore careers in healthcare and beyond. What began as a vision has grown into a movement grounded in mentorship, opportunity, and hope.

“My dream has always been to create resources that help students achieve their dreams,” Virginia shares.“In the process, I have realized that I am fulfilling my own dream — giving underprivileged youth the opportunity to achieve greatness and believe in what is possible for their lives.”

A Collective Effort Rooted in Mission

None of this work happens alone. Our impact in 2025 would not have been possible without the commitment and leadership of our Executive Board and our newly formed Advisory Board. Their expertise, passion, and belief in E2P’s mission have strengthened our organization and expanded our reach.

We are truly amazed by how many individuals have joined this mission — educators, healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and advocates — all united by a shared commitment to student success in healthcare and beyond.

Honoring Leadership: Labor to Leadership Gala

In 2025, E2P proudly honored John Hundzynski, President of District 1199C Healthcare Union and Director of Industry and Partnerships for The Educational Empowerment Project, Inc., at our Labor to Leadership Gala.

John’s tireless advocacy has not only improved wages and working conditions for thousands of healthcare professionals but has also strengthened the foundation of healthcare education and workforce development. Through his leadership at E2P, John continues to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring that underprivileged youth have access to meaningful, sustainable careers in healthcare.

Elevating Student Voices: Voices of E2P

In 2025, E2P launched the Voices of E2P Series, a powerful storytelling initiative centered on what matters most — our students.

These stories remind us why this work matters.

“E2P and Ms. DeFelice empowered me to believe in myself, to go to college, and to never give up on the things I want most. I am pursuing my dream of becoming a Certified Medical Assistant. She brightened my lowest days and made my high school journey unforgettable.”— Desiree Torres, Student Advisory Board Member

Spotlighting Excellence: CTE Spotlight Program

With the support of Councilman Jim Harrity, E2P proudly launched the CTE Spotlight Program at Swenson Arts & Technology High School — a monthly initiative celebrating students who exemplify academic achievement, technical excellence, leadership, and personal growth.

October 2025 – “Starting Strong” Award

• Rayan Mustafa, Health Related Technology ProgramAspiring Registered Nurse committed to compassion and service

• Vinchenzo Williams, FreshmanAspiring EMT with diverse interests and a passion for leadership

November 2025 – Auto Body & Auto Technology Award

• Boyhan Bakhtiyorov, Auto Body ProgramA driven junior with entrepreneurial goals and a strong work ethic

• Jian Hui Chen, Auto Tech ProgramA curious and academically driven student exploring science, chemistry, and engineering

Each of these students represents the promise of what happens when opportunity meets encouragement.

Learning by Doing: Hands-On Skills Workshops

E2P’s commitment to experiential learning came to life through hands-on skills workshops led by dedicated professionals:

• Tom M. Czyzewski, BSN, RN, CPAN, Executive Board Member & Director of Workforce Development & Operations

• Kisha Debnam-Holmes, Executive Board Member & Certified Nursing Assistant Educator

Students engaged in real-world skills including medical math, nutrition and hydration, urinalysis, and specimen collection.

Additionally, Advisory Board Member and PCOM medical student John Lim led an interactive cardiac systems workshop, bringing learning to life through EKG demonstrations, stress testing education, and hands-on exploration of the heart’s electrical system.

Gratitude for Partnership and Support

As we close out 2025, we extend our deepest gratitude to Michael Young, President & CEO of Temple University Health System, for the generous donation of two EKG machines. This contribution reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers, investing in education, and creating opportunities for students who deserve access to high-quality learning experiences.

Looking Ahead

As we step into the new year, our vision continues to grow — and one of the most anticipated moments ahead is our 2026 Denim & Diamonds Gala.

Empowering Students. Celebrating Community. Honoring Excellence.

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the 2026 Denim & Diamonds Gala, a signature fundraising and celebration event supporting The Educational Empowerment Project, Inc. (E2P) and its mission to uplift and empower Philadelphia’s students through education, mentorship, and career pathways.

Honorees of the Evening

We are proud to recognize three outstanding leaders whose vision, service, and commitment have made a lasting impact on Philadelphia’s students and community:

• Councilman Jim HarrityHonored for his vision, partnership, and dedication to empowering Philadelphia’s students and strengthening our communities.

• Principal Judy HaughtonHonored for a lifetime of service to students and her unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

• Dr. Peter Honig, D.O.Honored for his lifetime commitment to medicine, compassionate patient care, and decades of service mentoring and inspiring future healthcare professionals in the South Philadelphia community.

In addition to honoring our community leaders, the evening will include special recognition of students for their academic excellence and Career & Technical Education (CTE) achievements, celebrating the next generation of leaders, caregivers, and professionals.

Proceeds from the Denim & Diamonds Gala directly support E2P programs that expand access to education, healthcare career pathways, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities for underserved youth across Philadelphia.

Join Us — Tickets & Sponsorships Available

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Your support helps ensure that students have access to education, mentorship, and real-world career experiences that change lives.

Purchase tickets or become a sponsor:https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/e2p-2026-denim-and-diamonds-gala

 For sponsorship inquiries or additional information:donations@e2pinc.org

Together, we are building a workforce.

Together, we are empowering futures.

With gratitude and hope,

Virginia DeFelice

President, Founder & Chair of the Board of Directors

The Educational Empowerment Project, Inc.