History

In 1988 Louis A. Mitchell (NHS Class of 1952) began acting on his dream of starting a non-profit, college access organization that would exclusively serve the Newark City School District. By offering matching funds from County Savings Bank, he challenged Newark High School alumni to contribute money for Last-Dollar Grants which would help qualified Newark graduates attend college. Alumni responded generously and a group of community leaders, led by Jane Cook McConnell, met in the fall of 1991 to officially found A Call to College.  Mrs. McConnell served as the President of the Governing Board until her passing in 2007. Her tireless dedication and exceptional leadership helped the organization become the model college access program it is today.
Milestones

1988

Louis Mitchell begins fundraising to start organization

1991

A Call to College founded

1996

Diane DeLawder named Executive Director

2004

One millionth scholarship dollar awarded

2007

Junior Program begins

2009

Early college awareness program (PEAK) begins

2011

Two millionth scholarship dollar awarded