January 2008
                                          
DC Sports & Entertainment Commission and Clark/Hunt/Smoot Host the Next Generation of Ballpark Builders

DCPS Chancellor Michelle Rhee Joins Cardozo Senior High School Students on Tour of New Nationals Ballpark

(Washington, DC) - Today, the DC Sports & Entertainment Commission (DCSEC) and Clark/Hunt/Smoot welcomed DC Public Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee and Cardozo Senior High School students interested in the fields of architecture, engineering and construction management on a tour of the new Nationals Ballpark. As students walked the construction site, they also had the opportunity to gain real-life experience by shadowing local trade workers, construction leaders and architects in order to acquire knowledge in the architect/engineering/construction world.

“We’re excited to give these students an early introduction into the architecture, engineering and construction industries and also into careers that are so vital to the growth of our city.  It is our hope that one day these youth will work on projects of this magnitude,” said Greg O’Dell, DCSEC CEO.

“Vocational education is a key to the future of our city and to improving the quality of life for District residents,” said At-Large Councilmember Kwame R. Brown. “This is a great opportunity to spark the imagination of these young students and inspire them to keep up their hard work and determination.”

Many of the students are part of a District-based ACE (Architecture/Construction/ Engineering) Mentoring Program designed to give them a hands-on feel in the architecture, construction and engineering and related areas of the design and construction industry through mentoring.  ACE also provides college scholarships to selected graduates, mentor firms offer jobs to qualified students, and universities identify likely applicants for admission.

“I am thrilled to witness this new generation of ballpark builders,” touted DCPS Chancellor Michelle Rhee.  “As part of the atmosphere that is being created to improve the public schools, this is just another example of the total effort to enlighten and encourage opportunities for DC Public School students,” said Rhee.

After receiving instruction from bricklayers, painters, and masonry workers, students left with the confidence to build sports facilities like Nationals Park.

“I believe in me.  If I want to do it, I am going to do it,” said Ivan Ango, a junior at Cardozo High School.

Last month, more than a dozen students from Anacostia Senior High School also had a chance to see the construction work first hand on a tour hosted by the DC Sports and Entertainment Commission.

The DC Sports and Entertainment Commission, an independent agency of the District of Columbia government, is responsible for the management and operation of Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, the D.C. Armory and their adjacent facilities. 
The Commission is also charged with presenting and promoting sports, entertainment and special events.  For more information, visit us at http://www.washDCSports.com.