About Us
22 Ways Leadership Academy is a 501 (c) (3) Non-Profit organization that started as a Historically Black College club in 2004.
Since its humble beginnings as a Historically Black College club in 2004, our organization has flourished, embarking on 18 years of empowering high school and community college students through workshops and college tours. Our journeys have encompassed visits to HBCUs, Ivy League institutions, and local CSU and UC campuses. By cultivating an inclusive environment, we strive to empower individuals of diverse abilities, fostering awareness, understanding, and acceptance. Our commitment to equality underscores the recognition that everyone possesses unique strengths and challenges.
Through collaborative efforts, we work towards ensuring the success of every individual, paralleling our dedication to empowering under-resourced, underprivileged, and underrepresented students.
This aligns with our broader mission, exemplified by the impact we’ve made on over 1000 students, providing workshops, scholarship assistance, and diverse academic opportunities to inspire and propel them toward achievement. It’s worth noting that the financial backing for these initiatives has been made possible by the unwavering dedication of students’ fundraising efforts, the generosity of families and volunteers, and the valuable in-kind sponsored donations we have received.
Financial aid
Resume Writing
College Applications
Forms
Scholarships
"Measuring Success"
We measure success by the number of students who are accepted into colleges and universities. Our success rate is 90%. This means that 90 of the 100 students who have toured with us have been accepted and enrolled in higher education, including vocational education.
Our Leadership Team
Tiffany Sellers
Board Treasurer
A Fresno native, mother of two beautiful girls, and is a trained cosmetologist and self care instructor in the community for 22 years. Currently, as a property manager, she enjoys meeting new people to facilitate their transition to apartment style living. Her oldest daughter, who is now a freshmen at an HBCU, was introduced to 22 ways 2 years ago. The information that was provided through this amazing program made Tiffany want to take part and help students and parents find success in college resources in the Central Valley.
Dr. Sonja Wilson Lawrence
Chief Executive Office
A k-12 public school educational counselor for 22 years and a Juvenile Correctional Officer for 10 years. For thirty plus years she has enjoyed serving the Fresno Community by expanding economic, personal, social, and emotional goals and opportunities for individuals and families. She is inspired by helping others find their passion in love and life, and as the C00 of 22ways Inc., Sonja looks forward to increasing cultural & travel opportunities for students in Fresno and the surrounding communities!
As the CEO, Sonja manages and handles the daily business operations of 22 Ways, working closely with students and supports the day-to-day activities of the organization.