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​College‑prep & character development for financially disadvantaged youth
Path of Success (POSSE) equips students with the tools to set high goals and achieve success in relationships, academics, and future careers. Founded in 1991 by Alfred D. Watts—from inner‑city New Haven to Cornell University—our Leadership Seminars and POSSE initiative have transformed thousands of young lives nationwide.
Our Mission
Path of Success, Inc. is a personal development organization committed to equipping students with the knowledge and tools necessary to set high goals and achieve success in relationships, academics and future careers.
Our History
Path of Success, Inc. evolved out of Alfred D. Watts’s life experiences. An average student at Wilbur Cross High School in the inner city of New Haven, Connecticut, he was inspired by a mentor to dream big dreams and dare to achieve them. After earning the Choate Rosemary Hall School Seal Prize and graduating from Cornell University’s Hotel School, Mr. Watts used his cash prize to found Path of Success in 1991. Since then, our Leadership Seminars have positively impacted thousands of students from Wyoming to New York.
Who It’s For
Path of Success serves students ages 13–18, beginning in 8th grade and continuing through 12th grade.
We support:
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Motivated youth from under-resourced communities, especially those identified by school faculty as having high potential but limited access.
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Financially disadvantaged students, typically from families earning less than $35,000/year.
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Teens facing challenges, including those impacted by low self-esteem, academic struggles, or difficult environments.
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Parents and guardians who are ready to support their child’s path to college and success.
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Educators, mentors, and volunteers who want to invest in the next generation of leaders.
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Our programs are tailored for youth who are ready to dream big—and work hard to make it real.
What We Offer
Leadership Seminar
A dynamic one‑ to three‑day seminar split into six interactive sessions:
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Tapping the Spirit Within
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Renewing Your Mind
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Dream Big Dreams
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Who Are You? Character vs. Personality
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Mastering the Art of Goal Setting
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Daring to Be Different
POSSE Initiative
A four‑year, six‑phase comprehensive program for high‑potential, financially disadvantaged students:
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Phase I: “Diamonds in the Rough” – Selection & orientation
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Phase II: “Unleashing Your True Potential” – Leadership retreat & ongoing support
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Phase III: “Tapping the Riches Within” – Community service & team building
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Phase IV: “College Bound” – Career prep, SAT training, college visits
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Phase V: “What Lies Ahead” – Senior‑year summit & mentoring skills
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Phase VI: “Going Forward and Giving Back” – Alumni network & lifetime connection
"Good, better, best, never let it rest. Until your good is your better and your better is your best!"
