Opening Doors, Expanding Horizons: NCBW Greater Cleveland’s Virtual College Tour Experience

For The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Greater Cleveland Chapter, investing in the next generation is not simply part of our mission—it is part of our responsibility. Through our commitment to advocacy on behalf of Black women and girls in the areas of education, leadership development, and empowerment, we remain focused on creating opportunities that help young women see beyond their immediate surroundings and envision what is possible. That vision came to life through our recent Virtual College Tour Experience, presented by the chapter’s “Through Her Eyes” Mentorship Committee. Led by Education Committee Chair Shawana Hanson, this initiative was designed to do more than showcase colleges. It was about exposure, access, and helping young women begin to see themselves in spaces they may have only imagined.

For many students—particularly young Black women—college exploration can feel overwhelming, unfamiliar, or financially out of reach before the journey even begins. Sometimes what’s missing is not ambition. It’s exposure. The ability to explore campuses, learn about academic programs, understand student life, and ask questions in a supportive environment can be transformational. That is why experiences like this matter. NCBW Greater Cleveland believes educational equity includes ensuring young women have access to information, mentorship, and encouragement that helps them make informed decisions about their futures. The Virtual College Tour Experience introduced participants to higher education pathways in an engaging and accessible format, allowing them to explore institutions, imagine themselves on campus, and begin thinking intentionally about their academic and leadership journeys. The event reflected the spirit of our mentorship work: helping young women build confidence, broaden their horizons, and recognize that their dreams are valid and achievable. Whether participants were already college-bound or simply beginning to consider what comes next, the experience offered meaningful exposure to opportunities that can shape futures.

Under the leadership of Shawana Hanson, the Education Committee continues to create programming that aligns directly with NCBW’s mission to uplift Black women and girls through education and advocacy. Strong mentorship changes outcomes. When young women can learn from leaders who understand both the challenges and the possibilities ahead, confidence grows. Programs like this are not just about admissions conversations—they are about identity, aspiration, and empowerment.

The Virtual College Tour may be over, but the work continues. NCBW Greater Cleveland remains committed to developing thoughtful, impactful programming that prepares young women not only for college—but for leadership.

Because exposure creates opportunity. And when young women can clearly see possibility, they are far more likely to pursue it.