FDA Welcomes Home Alum William Villa for Full Circle Moment

Harlem Lacrosse alumnus William Villa recently had an eventful week, highlighting the power of community engagement and the transformative impact of internships. As a freshman on the St. Lawrence University lacrosse team, William returned to the place where his journey began, exemplifying the values he picked up along the way.

After coming to the United States from the Dominican Republic, William faced the challenges of acclimating to a different language and new educational system at Frederick Douglass Academy (FDA). Despite these obstacles, his relentless determination led him to earn a PG year at Northfield Mount Hermon School (NMH) and admission to St. Lawrence University through the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP).

William, alongside his college teammates, visited Harlem and his high school this week on spring break. They conducted a lacrosse clinic for current players, investing their time in the next generation of HL participants. This act of giving back underscored the importance of community involvement and mentorship in nurturing young talent, while reinforcing what it means to be a member of the Harlem family. Additionally, William's week included a conference showdown against Skidmore, where he had the opportunity to reunite with fellow HL student Ryan in a Liberty League matchup.

The return to Harlem as a college lacrosse player and mentor held special significance for William. Hours before running the clinic, William secured a coveted internship at Union Square Hospitality Group through Harlem Lacrosse's internship program. This served as a full-circle moment in William’s story.

At Harlem Lacrosse, the significance of facilitating summer internships for students cannot be overstated. The college experience can often appear daunting, particularly for young individuals navigating higher education. By providing a pathway to internships, we empower students to gain practical experience, explore their interests, and chart a path toward their professional aspirations.

Internships serve as a crucial tool for students to discern their career preferences and leverage their college education effectively. William's achievement exemplifies the efficacy of internships as a means of fostering persistence and personal growth among HL participants.

Despite his team having 2 big Top 5 wins this past weekend and him seeing some playing time for the first time, his primary excitement stemmed from the opportunity to give back to the community that had supported him throughout his journey. During his visit, William was honored with a banner commemorating his legacy at Frederick Douglass Academy, serving as a testament to his impact and the enduring bond between Harlem Lacrosse and its alumni.

In conclusion, William’s multifaceted week underscores our commitment to empowering students through community engagement and internships. By nurturing talent, fostering mentorship, and facilitating professional development opportunities, we continue to strive to make a profound difference in the lives of our participants and the communities that we have the privilege to serve.