Educational Student Tours
Black College Tours A Success Story

In the fall of 1987, an idea was born that was destined to have a tremendous impact
on African American students throughout California and far beyond. In 1987 EST
conducted its first black college tour. Even though only 35 students participated, our
first tour was a huge success. The students on that tour discovered things that they
could have only imagined before. They found an educational environment that centered
on their academic and social success. They discovered a strong sense of belonging the
moment they set foot on campus. Each student gained insights about our history and
contributions to this country and the world. Over the years, like this first group, each
group that followed has found the same positive elements. As a result of the EST black
college tour experience more than 3,000 students, from across the nation, have been
motivated to work harder than ever before to achieve their educational goals. Approximately
80% of our participants have become students at and are graduates of a historically black
college or university. Our tours are all about success, not only for the individual but the
success of our country. We cannot afford to have any part of the American people to be
anything less than their very best. Our world is becoming more and more competitive.
Historically black colleges have proven themselves extremely valuable in the development of
our youth.

Since their inception, interest in our black college tours has grown tremendously. A key element
of this growth is a constant striving towards quality in the development of each tour. Every aspect
of every tour is scrutinized to assure that each student will have the very best experience possible.
Our tours have also been the focus of a great deal of media attention. They have been featured on
the CBS television program "Two the Point", ABC's "Nightline", and on FOX's "Good Day LA." Our
black college tours have been featured in the Los Angeles Times, The Los Angeles Sentinel and
Essence Magazine. Radio station 100.3 "The Beat" has aired very positive programs about our tours. 

As a result of our consistent efforts to serve our youth, EST has been the recipient of numerous
awards and commendations. In April, 1991, EST received the Martin Luther King Jr. award from
Anheuser Busch. In May 1993, we received a special commendation from the Los Angeles County
Board of Supervisors. In June 1995, EST received national recognition from The National Council
of Negro Women. In May, 1996, we were the recipient of the outstanding community service award
given by the Black Women's Lawyers Association. In March, 1998, we received recognition from
ZETA PHI BETA Sorority. In October 1998, we received an award from Florida A&M University. And
in 1999, we received a community service award from El Camino College's Project Success program.
In July of 2003, EST received its non-profit status from the federal government.

While the awards and television appearances are appreciated, they are not why we continue to work
so very hard. Our sole purpose is to help build a brighter tomorrow for our youth. In this endeavor
we cannot and will not ever stop. Education of our youth is the key to our collective future!