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Miami Dade College (MDC) and the Overtown Youth Center (OYC Miami) have entered into a collaborative memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen pathways to education, workforce development and student success for youth and families in Miami-Dade County.
The agreement establishes a framework for joint initiatives, programs and services designed to expand access to higher education, provide academic and career readiness support, and promote long-term student achievement. The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to deliver innovative educational opportunities, mentorship and experiential learning for OYC Miami participants and the broader community.
“Miami Dade College is proud to partner with the OYC Miami to create meaningful pathways to education and student success for youth in our community,” said MDC President Madeline Pumariega. “This agreement reflects our shared commitment to access, innovation, and opportunity, connecting young people to mentorship, academic preparation, and career-focused experiences that will empower them to reach their full potential.”
MDC’s access efforts will include early college awareness activities, readiness workshops, master classes, guest lectures, and college and career exploration opportunities such as campus visits, shadowing and bridge experiences. To support engagement and persistence, MDC students may provide tutoring and mentorship through service-learning initiatives, while student success coaching and transition support will help participants navigate enrollment, financial aid and the transition to college.
The partnership will also support workforce development and career exposure through continuing education opportunities, skills-based workshops and industry-informed programming designed to prepare participants for in-demand careers across South Florida. Dedicated liaisons from both organizations will collaborate to guide students from program participation through college entry and early academic success.
“Education and opportunity are powerful tools for transformation,” said Tina Brown, CEO of the OYC Miami. “This partnership with Miami Dade College expands the possibilities for our young people and families, connecting them to academic pathways, mentorship, and career preparation that support long-term success and economic mobility.”
About the Overtown Youth Center
The Overtown Youth Center (OYC Miami), founded in 2003, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering youth and families through education, enrichment, and comprehensive support services. OYC Miami provides academic enrichment, college and career readiness programming, family services, health and wellness initiatives, and leadership development opportunities that help youth and families thrive and reach their full potential. For more information, visit www.OYCMiami.org.
About Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College (MDC) is the most diverse institution in the nation, with 167 nations and 63 languages represented in its student body. The college’s eight campuses and outreach centers offer over 300 distinct degree pathways, including associate and baccalaureate degrees, certifications and apprenticeships. MDC is the recipient of many top national awards, including the prestigious Aspen Prize, and has been ranked #5 among Top Public Institutions in the Southern Region by U.S. News & World Report. The College changes lives through accessible, high-quality teaching and learning experiences. It is home to the Miami Culinary Institute, the Miami Animation & Gaming International Complex, the Miami Fashion Institute, The Idea Center, the Cybersecurity Center of the Americas, two AI Centers, the Center for Learning, Innovation and Simulation at the Medical Campus, the Business Innovation & Technology Center, the School for Advanced Studies and New World School of the Arts, among others. MDC has been recognized among the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For” since the program’s inception. The College serves as an economic, cultural and civic leader for the advancement of our diverse global community. MDC alumni and employees contribute more than $5 billion annually to the local economy, and graduates occupy top leadership positions in every major industry. MDC’s renowned rich cultural programming includes the Miami Book Fair, Miami Film Festival, the National Historic Landmark Miami Freedom Tower, Koubek Center Mansion and Gardens, Live Arts Miami at MDC, the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Florida Moving Image Archives, and the Museum of Art and Design. MDC has admitted more than 2.5 million students and counting, since it opened its doors in 1960. Approximately 125,000 students are currently enrolled. For more information, visit www.mdc.edu.
