More than 40 students from 11 SPS high schools took a break from winter vacation to attend the WHOLE Mentoring Microsoft Campus Tour where they heard from professionals about careers in technology and gaming.   

The Queens and Kings were selected by Black Student Union advisors based on their community service, leadership in school, and dedication to attaining academic success. 

According to Kelvin Dankwa, the program coordinator for WHOLE Mentoring, the trip was in direct response to students’ requests.  

“Students desire opportunities to learn outside of the classroom and long to be exposed to the careers and opportunities they’ve been so curious about,” he said. “This trip was to fulfill those desires and for them to gain confidence from the testimonies they heard from the Black Microsoft employees that once walked in their shoes.” 

Dankwa said the students are going to be professionals one day, so it’s important for them to get comfortable in the spaces they will one day work.   

Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner made a surprise appearance, meeting with students, taking photos, and signing autographs. He also helped present the students with a new Microsoft Surface laptop.