Miami Dade College and Overtown Youth Center Partner to Expand Educational Opportunities

The two organizations sign a memorandum of understanding to strengthen pathways to higher education, workforce development, and student success.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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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.

Why it matters

This partnership reflects the shared commitment of both MDC and OYC Miami to deliver innovative educational opportunities, mentorship, and experiential learning for youth in the community. It aims to connect young people to the resources and support they need to access higher education and achieve long-term success.

The details

Under the agreement, MDC will provide early college awareness activities, readiness workshops, master classes, guest lectures, and college and career exploration opportunities for OYC Miami participants. MDC students may also 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.

  • The MOU was signed in February 2026.

The players

Miami Dade College

A public state college and the largest institution of higher education in Miami-Dade County, known for its diverse student body and wide range of academic programs.

Overtown Youth Center (OYC Miami)

A nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering youth and families in the Overtown neighborhood through education, enrichment, and comprehensive support services.

Madeline Pumariega

The president of Miami Dade College.

Tina Brown

The CEO of the Overtown Youth Center (OYC Miami).

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What they’re saying

“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. 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.”

— Madeline Pumariega, President, Miami Dade College (Community Newspapers)

“Education and opportunity are powerful tools for transformation. 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.”

— Tina Brown, CEO, Overtown Youth Center (OYC Miami) (Community Newspapers)

What’s next

The partnership will begin implementing joint initiatives, programs, and services in the 2026-2027 academic year to support the educational and career aspirations of youth and families in the Overtown community.

The takeaway

This collaboration between Miami Dade College and the Overtown Youth Center demonstrates a commitment to expanding access to higher education, providing comprehensive support, and creating pathways to long-term success for underserved youth in the Miami-Dade area.