EAST NEW YORK (WABC) -- The name and motto, 'I will graduate,' is empowering students to commit to their education.

The organization held an event in Brooklyn with motivational speakers and other performances to inspire students to follow their dreams.

The 'I will graduate' pledge at Margaret Douglas Junior High School kicked off a season of citywide programming meant to empower.

"Our number one program is college and career readiness; we have mentoring programs," Founder Tonya Lewis said.

Lewis co-founded 'I will graduate' 18 years ago to address school dropout rates.

"What I've seen over the years is improvement, but the work is not over because we find many of our students are still not engaged, especially after the pandemic," Lewis said.

Students say they are focused on their go

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