Washington, D.C.-area rapper Wale has teamed up with first lady Michelle Obama to promote the Reach Higher Initiative. On Thursday the first lady will host more than 130 college-bound students in D.C. for the 2015 Beating the Odds Summit.
According to a press release, Obama, Wale and scholars will participate in a panel that will address the students who “have overcome substantial obstacles to persist through high school and make it to college.”
“I believe that the youth are the first step in creating a better country, so to be involved in a program that aims to enrich their lives is truly the greatest reward,” Wale stated. “Having grown up in Washington, D.C., being invited to the White House by the first lady is a dream come true. Thank you to Mrs. Obama and her entire staff for this opportunity.”
The Reach Higher Initiative was started by the first lady to inspire all students in America to take charge of their future by completing their education past high school, whether at a professional training program, a community college, or a four-year college or university.
In addition to taking part on the panel, Wale will also perform for the students in attendance.