The DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment (OCTFME) has partnered with the #1 historically Black University in the nation, Howard University, to launch the inaugural Warner Music | Blavatnik Center for Music Business Summer Program—offering DC Public Schools (DCPS) student scholars an extraordinary opportunity to explore careers in the music and entertainment industry.
The Warner Music | Blavatnik Center at Howard University serves as a national hub in preparing diverse and talented students for leadership in music and media. With a blend of world-class curriculum, executive-in-residence mentorship, and exclusive certification programs, the Center equips young creatives with the tools, exposure, and access they need to thrive.
From July 14–18, more than 40 students from across the country, including participants from DCPS, will gather on the historic Howard University campus for a week of immersive, tech-forward learning. The program emphasizes collaboration, innovation and direct engagement with leading entertainment industry professionals—all while planting seeds for long-term career success.
As part of the experience, students will also spend a day at OCTFME’s Studio — the former home of BET headquarters — for hands-on learning inside DC Radio, one of only two municipally owned radio stations in the nation. There, they’ll gain firsthand exposure to the world of broadcasting, connect with radio personalities, and hear directly from music and entertainment industry professionals about careers both in front of and behind the mic. Featured speakers include award-winning DJ and radio personality DJ QuickSilva; WPGC Morning Show host Nori Moss; OCTFME’s Emmy award-winning producers John Avery and GiGi Hinton; DC Radio personalities Troy Pickney and Dion Dove of ‘Hip Hop Corridor’; recording industry veteran and OCTFME Chief of Staff Monique Davis-Cary; and seasoned television and radio veteran LaToya Foster, OCTFME Director.
“OCTFME is proud to support Mayor Bowser’s vision of creating meaningful pathways for DC youth,” said LaToya Foster, OCTFME Director. “Connecting them to Warner Music | Blavatnik Center for Music Business supports Mayor Bowser’s growth agenda, gives our youth a real seat at the table in the music industry, and a fair shot at high paying, non-traditional careers—and that’s what building the DC creative economy looks like.”
Through this meaningful partnership, students attend the program at no cost and receive backpacks, textbooks, and uniforms—ensuring they are prepared and equipped to participate fully.
“This collaboration underscores our deep commitment to education, empowerment and community uplift,” said Jasmine Young, director of the Warner Music | Blavatnik Center for Music Business Summer Program. “Together with the District and the greater DMV, we’re building pathways for the next generation of leaders in culture and business.”
This year’s DCPS students include:
- Kimora Bazel, Roosevelt High School
- Brooklynne Brown, Calvin Coolidge High School
- Amina Collins, Bell CHEC Multicultural High School
- Auset Collins, Bell CHEC Multicultural High School
- Matias Figueroa, Jackson-Reed High School
- Michael Manley, Theodore Roosevelt High School
- Nichols Maya, Roosevelt High School
These youth represent the incredible talent emerging from DCPS and reflect the power of public-private partnerships to expand opportunity for local youth.
“We could not be more excited for our scholars,” said DCPS Chancellor, Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee. “Music education in DC Public Schools cultivates our students’ ability to create and empowers them to use their voice with courage. We are proud to support them taking part in this impactful partnership and continuing their education and passion for music over the summer break.”
Together, OCTFME, Howard University and DCPS are helping the next generation of DC creatives hit the right note—ensuring they are inspired, prepared and ready to lead in the entertainment industries of tomorrow.
For more information about Howard University and the Warner | Blavatnik Center for Music Business, visit www.howard.edu.