By: Lennard James
The atmosphere was energized and hopeful at the recent Man Up Fellowship event held at the Memphis Renasant Convention Center, where a thought-provoking and solutions-oriented panel discussion took center stage, moderated by Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq. Known for his contributions in both the legal and community sectors, Reaves brought his signature blend of professionalism, purpose, and passion to a conversation focused on reshaping the future of education: increasing the presence of Black male educators in America’s classrooms.
The Man Up Teacher Fellowship is a five-year program aimed at recruiting, training, and placing men of color into impactful roles within schools. With a model built on mentorship, certification, and leadership development, Man Up helps reduce traditional barriers by offering licensure, a Master’s in Education, and Educational Leadership certification—all at no cost to its fellows. The goal is not only to build a workforce of teachers but also to cultivate generational change agents who can positively influence students both inside and outside the classroom.
As moderator, Attorney Reaves guided a compelling panel discussion that included prominent voices in education and youth development, such as Brian Harris from City of Memphis Youth Services, Founder & CEO Dr. Patrick Washington, and other key stakeholders actively supporting educational equity. Their collective presence highlighted the importance of the moment—and the movement.
Reaves opened the discussion by acknowledging the dedication and resilience of the men in the room, many of whom are fellows or alumni of the Man Up program. “Initiatives like this go beyond just teaching,” Reaves said. “They represent a shift in how we approach leadership, mentorship, and excellence in education for young men of color.”
The dialogue addressed key issues facing Black male educators today, including a significant decline in funding, which has dropped from $1.4 million to $275,000, potentially limiting opportunities for many aspiring fellows. Reaves emphasized the potential consequences of this reduction, encouraging leaders and potential donors to consider the far-reaching effects programs like Man Up can have on students and communities.
Throughout the panel, Reaves skillfully integrated testimony, facts, and actionable insights, all while keeping the focus on the students who stand to benefit from greater representation in education. “Research suggests that when young boys of color see educators who look like them—individuals who listen, understand, and uplift—it can have a profound effect,” he said.
Panelist Brian Harris reinforced those sentiments, sharing how City of Memphis Youth Services has observed positive outcomes from programs that place Black male educators in front of youth. “There’s growing evidence that role models who’ve overcome challenges can inspire students to believe in themselves more deeply,” Harris said.
Dr. Patrick Washington added valuable perspective on educational policy and program design, noting the need for sustained community partnerships and ongoing professional development for fellows.
The event featured emotional testimonies from fellows, who shared how the Man Up Fellowship played a key role in shaping their lives. Some spoke about breaking cycles of poverty, others about being the first in their family to earn a graduate degree—each underscoring the power of mentorship, exposure, and community.
Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq. listened intently and affirmed their journeys. “These stories illustrate what’s possible when we invest in people, not just policies,” he said.
As moderator, Reaves also highlighted the importance of providing students with diverse role models, emphasizing that Black male educators serve not only as teachers but as mentors, leaders, and examples of achievement.
In closing, Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq., encouraged continued effort: “Let’s keep working to expose, empower, and elevate. Let’s ensure this progress extends beyond today.”
The Man Up Fellowship stands as an example of potential systemic change in education. With the guidance of figures like Attorney Henry E. Reaves III, Esq., and the support of dedicated partners like Brian Harris, Founder & CEO Dr. Patrick Washington, and others, the movement is growing—and creating meaningful change one classroom, one student, and one fellow at a time. For more information or to contribute to Man UP! Visit https://manupteach.org
Published by Jeremy S.
