Hoping to inspire a new generation of college students, Mrs. Jacqueline Wilson, First Lady of Wayne State University and Founding Director of the HIGH Program, spoke to 80 eighth graders during the annual Wayne State Warrior Day at Bates Academy in Detroit on November 15.

"It was an honor to speak with some of Detroit's most promising young people about their potential to go to and succeed in college," Mrs. Wilson said of the experience.

Bates Academy is one of the flagship schools within the Detroit Public Schools Community District, known for attracting "the best and brightest" as a gifted and talented magnet school. It is a top feeder school for Renaissance High School and Cass Technical High School in Detroit.

During Warrior Day, students at Bates Academy participated in activities and workshops led by Wayne State University representatives. Mrs. Wilson closed the half-day event with her remarks. She described the many programs and resources at Wayne State University intended to help students succeed. After learning about the eighth graders' goals and professional aspirations, Mrs. Wilson shared the message that if the students continue to work hard and stay focused, they too, can earn a college degree.