This school year, the Eaton Fund provided students with access to meaningful opportunities designed to build confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper sense of belonging. Thanks to the generosity of Eaton Fund donors, students attended programs such as the Formation Conference at Howard University with Black Girl Tribe and the HOBY Youth Leadership program at Bentley University.
The Formation Conference at Howard University – Black Girl Tribe
The Formation Conference—organized by the Black Girl Tribe—is hosted for students ages 12–18. The experience leverages hands-on workshops, dialogues, and community-building activities to create a safe, celebratory space for Black girls. When reflecting upon the experience, Beaver students described the conference as a powerful, uplifting space. “[Tribe] gives you a chance to learn more about Black history and the impact it has on us today,” shared one attendee. Another added: “It’s one of the best communities I could be a part of. It made me cry happy tears for the first time!”
I would definitely recommend Tribe because it’s a space to meet new people from all over the country, learn about and hear others’ experiences, and create friendships that will last a lifetime. I have been doing Tribe for almost five years now, and most of the people that I have met over the years, I still talk to everyday.
Student reflection
HOBY Youth Leadership at Bentley University
Beaver attendees of the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership program explored leadership, service, and innovation through engaging speakers and activities. Staying on Bentley’s campus gave students a meaningful glimpse into college life, while group bonding and discussions encouraged personal growth and new friendships with like-minded peers. Students point to “lots of fun bonding activities” as a major highlight of the experience. “I enjoyed that we were in groups for the weekend because it gave me a group I knew that I could go to if needed. I made friends with my group!”
[HOBY] had really immersive speakers and activities. Staying on the Bentley campus was super fun and allowed me to see what college life might look like. They had fun bonding aspects that allowed me to get to know like-minded students.
Student reflection
Participation in the Formation Conference by Black Girl Tribe and the HOBY Youth Leadership program empowered students to develop skills through meaningful off-campus programming. From workshops on financial literacy and self-care to collaborative leadership activities and college campus immersion, each opportunity supported students’ personal growth and helped them feel seen and inspired.
Participation and travel costs for these programs were covered by the Eaton Fund, demonstrating the direct impact of donor support. The fund continues to grow, ensuring that Beaver students will have access to similar transformative experiences in the years ahead.
Please contact Jill Henson for more information about how to make an impact.