DATA Senior Donielle Gerrell attended the Ford Next Generation Learning (NGL) Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky from October 6-9. As the only student selected from the West Coast to attend, Gerrell conveyed the benefits of academy programs to business partners and school administrators from around the country.

The mission of Ford's NGL program is to mobilize educators, employers, and community leaders to create a new generation of young people who will graduate from high school ready for college and careers.

"It was one of the best experiences I've had in high school," said Gerrell. "I can't wait to go back."