The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis proudly celebrates six outstanding seniors from the Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School who have completed the Y Achievers Program and are set to pursue higher education in the fall of 2025. Their achievements will be recognized at a special ceremony on May 22 at 3960 Meadows Drive, with doors opening at 8:30 a.m.
These young leaders are not only graduating with academic accolades — they are walking confidently into a new chapter of life, empowered by the support, mentorship and opportunities they gained through their time in the Y Achievers Program.
Founded in 2004, the Charles A. Tindley Accelerated School began with a mission to provide a rigorous, college-preparatory education to urban youth. Over the years, it has grown to include Tindley Summit Academy and Tindley Genesis Academy, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
The YMCA partnered with Tindley to bring the Y Achievers Program to its students — a pivotal moment that began a transformative journey for many. Y Achievers is designed to prepare youth and teens for life after high school, with guidance on college admissions, career planning, vocational training, financial aid and personal development. More than just an academic program, it fosters a sense of community, confidence and purpose.
This year’s graduating class of Y Achievers from Tindley includes six remarkable students: Alexandria Green, Justus Johnson, Dayli Marshall, Maxine Pounds, Henri Maye and Asaph Mozee. Each has been shaped by the unique opportunities and life lessons the program offered.
A Village of Support
For Alexandria Green, Y Achievers was much more than a resume booster — it was a lifeline. “Beyond fun activities, this program gave us valuable opportunities too — like meeting with staff from Purdue University, who helped us craft our college essays and later came back to share study tips and advice for succeeding in college,” Alexandria shared. “When I struggled with deciding which college to attend, I reached out for help, and our mentor, Ms. Hansen, was right there to guide and support me through that important decision.”
For Justus Johnson, the experience was like “one big, supportive family.” “This program could impact my future because it has prepared me for the real world,” he said. “It’s given me multiple job opportunities. I would recommend it to a friend because it could positively impact them the same way it did me.”
Opening Doors to New Possibilities
Dayli Marshall emphasized how the program reshaped their perspective. “Y Achievers opened my eyes to opportunities I didn’t even know existed,” she said. “No matter what was going on in my life, walking into that space made me feel motivated, valued and ready to take on whatever came next.”
For Maxine Pounds, college prep resources made a real difference. “This program really helped me navigate which college I felt was best for me and to figure out the financial side of universities,” Maxine explained. “Our mentor was so relatable and genuine — it made all the difference.”
Henri Maye echoed the sentiment, saying the relationships and support made a lasting impact. “I’ve met so many great people and built lasting connections,” Henri said. “No matter what kind of day I was having, being a Y Achiever made me feel good about myself and my future.”
And for Asaph Mozee, the experience was deeply personal. “Ms. Tylar works every day to make sure we are happy, safe, and in the right mind space. She’s like another mother figure in my life,” Asaph said. “This program helped me reflect and change my life. I would recommend it because it helps you learn more about yourself.”
A Legacy of Empowerment
The YMCA believes that every young person deserves the tools to succeed and the support of a caring community. Through programs like Y Achievers, young leaders like the Tindley Class of 2025 are breaking barriers, achieving dreams and building a brighter, more equitable future.
The YMCA congratulates these graduates and celebrates their determination, heart and hard work. Their futures are bright — and their communities will be better because of them.
