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History in the Making: FocusQuest Joins Forces with NYC’s First HBCU-Inspired Public High School to Launch a New Era of Excellence

Queens, NY – [Insert Date] — Something powerful is happening in New York City education—and FocusQuest is proud to be at the forefront. The national student success and marketing firm has officially partnered with The HBCU Early College Prep High School, the first HBCU-modeled public high school in the five boroughs. Located in the heart of Queens, the school opens its doors on September 4, 2025, welcoming its inaugural class of future leaders, thinkers, and change agents.

The school is the bold vision of Dr. Asya Johnson, a trailblazing educator who dared to ask: What if we brought the brilliance and culture of HBCUs to high school? Her answer is this groundbreaking institution—rooted in legacy, built for excellence, and designed to uplift a new generation of scholars.

FocusQuest has been tapped as one of the school’s official marketing and student success partner, bringing its dynamic, proven approach to student engagement and institutional growth. As part of the collaboration, FocusQuest will lead:

• A vibrant Student Success Orientation to welcome and empower the first class of scholars
• Ongoing Educational Motivation Campaigns that inspire excellence all year long
• Newsletter creation and storytelling that keeps students, families, and the community informed and engaged
• Strategic branding and visibility efforts to amplify the school’s voice across NYC and beyond

“This is bigger than a partnership—this is a mission in motion,” said Sean-Reed McGee, CEO of FocusQuest. “The HBCU Early College Prep High School is what happens when vision meets courage. At FocusQuest, we’re honored to support this launch and to help guide students into a future shaped by pride, purpose, and power.”

With a clear mission to cultivate academic excellence, cultural pride, and real-world leadership, the school prepares students not just to attend college—but to own their path. Its vision: Activate our cultural genius and academic excellence to lead, innovate, and elevate the world.

Each student will be paired with a Success Coach, including faculty from Delaware State University (DSU), who will support their time management, study skills, and preparation for college-level work—starting from day one.

🔑 A Partnership Rooted in Legacy—and Built for the Future

FocusQuest was built to serve HBCUs from the inside out. The firm exclusively partners with HBCUs and MSIs to scale online programs and increase student success—guiding learners from application to graduation. Every student is matched with a certified Student Success Coach, trained in Appreciative Advising, who serves as a fierce advocate and motivator throughout their academic journey.

“FocusQuest understands the rhythm and brilliance of HBCUs,” McGee added. “And now, we get to bring that same energy and strategy into a NYC public high school. This is a game-changer.”

Outside the classroom, students will participate in summer tours of HBCU campuses, gaining early exposure to institutions that reflect their excellence and identity. The school taps into the enduring legacy of HBCUs, which for more than a century have empowered Black students to break barriers, build wealth, and lead across industries—including in STEM, business, education, and public service.

🎉 Be There on Day One – September 4, 2025

Opening day will be a celebration—filled with hope, joy, and history in the making. Local leaders, community members, media, and HBCU alumni are encouraged to come out, cheer on the students, and witness this unforgettable milestone.

For more on the school, visit https://hbcuecp.org
For more on FocusQuest, visit www.focusquest.com

About The HBCU Early College Prep High School

Founded by Dr. Asya Johnson, The HBCU Early College Prep High School is NYC’s first high school modeled after Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Its mission is to prepare students for college, career, and life through a rigorous, culturally affirming curriculum focused on academic excellence, leadership, and social impact. The school is committed to honoring legacy while building future generations of innovators, scholars, and world-changers.

About FocusQuest

FocusQuest is a Student Success Partner (SSP) exclusively dedicated to helping HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions grow their impact and support student success. Through tailored marketing, enrollment solutions, and one-on-one Success Coaching, FocusQuest walks alongside every student—from first inquiry to final graduation. The mission is simple: Empower institutions. Elevate students. Expand access.