CDI was founded in October 2005 by Nina W. Marks, an educator with over 30 years experience as a teacher and college counselor. Recognizing that high achieving children from low-income, first-generation-to college backgrounds are further disadvantaged by not growing up in a college-going culture, she started CDI to help bridge the opportunity gap. Her belief that higher education should be accessible to all deserving students regardless of their economic status was a driving force behind the program.
Nina hired Theresa O. Atta as Executive Director in October 2005. Together they built the framework for the program and established the initial key relationships with Montgomery County Public Schools, community supporters, and admissions offices at selective four-year colleges and universities.
Each year CDI adds approximately 24 students and their families, building toward the goal of serving 160 Scholars by 2013. Students enter the program as 11th graders and remain with CDI until they graduate from college.
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