As The College Sage celebrates its 10th year, we reflect with gratitude on the journey from a personal research project to a thriving counseling practice that serves both paying and pro bono students—helping hundreds of young people navigate the college admissions process and encouraging them to pursue their dream schools with confidence and optimism.

On June 21, Susan Leadem and Sue Woods of The College Sage attended the Charleston Forum. The Charleston Forum began in 2016 by a group of leaders who wanted to provide an outlet to discuss race following the shootings at Emanuel AME church. The community project strives to provide a dialogue that moves the race conversation forward, with no pre-set agenda but with a common purpose to improve race relations and equality within our community. College Sage attended the Charleston Forum because we aim to make a difference in education in our community.

The College Sage recently reconnected with NBA legend and Wake Forest alum Muggsy Bogues, whose inspiring journey from Baltimore’s housing projects to a 14-season NBA career shows how confidence, mentorship, and education can help break the cycle. Muggsy encourages young people to work hard, embrace their strengths, and pursue college, values we proudly support through our pro bono counseling for students with big dreams.

The College Sage attended the 9th Annual Public Education Partners Conference featuring award-winning journalist Nicole Hannah-Jones, who highlighted the urgent issues of school resegregation and opportunity gaps in education. Her impactful work challenges us to rethink equity in public schools and advocate for meaningful change.