The resolution recognizes and celebrates the 50th anniversary of Higher Achievement, an organization founded in 1975 by educator Greg Gannon in Washington, D.C. Originally known as the Higher Achievement Program, its mission is to provide rigorous academic opportunities to underserved middle school students. Over the years, Higher Achievement has expanded its reach to include affiliates in the DC Metro area, Baltimore, and Richmond, offering a comprehensive model that includes afterschool programming, academic enrichment, and social-emotional skill development. The organization is grounded in core values such as scholar centricity, racial equity, and community empowerment, and has demonstrated significant academic gains for its scholars through rigorous evaluations.

The resolution commends the founders, leadership, staff, mentors, and community partners of Higher Achievement for their unwavering commitment to the educational success of young people. It highlights the impressive outcomes of the program, noting that approximately 95% of its scholars graduate high school on time, and many go on to achieve higher education and make meaningful contributions in various fields. The Council of the District of Columbia honors Higher Achievement for its transformative impact on the lives of thousands of young people across the region, and the resolution takes effect immediately.