From Scholar to Mentor to Teacher: The Inspiring Journey of CSF-DC Alumna, Renesha Sizer

When Renesha Sizer joined the College Success Foundation–DC (CSF-DC) in 2009 as an Achievers Scholar, she was a determined high school student at H.D. Woodson with a dream of going to college. At the time, she wasn’t sure how to make that dream a reality, until she found CSF-DC. What she discovered was more than academic support; it was a community that believed in her potential and walked beside her every step of the way.

“I liked the way they walked beside me on the path to higher education,” Renesha shared. “That promise of guidance and opportunity was all I needed to take that first step. Belonging to CSF-DC feels like finding a second family and a safe place to grow.”

With the support of the Achievers Scholarship, Renesha attended Fairmont State University, where she earned her degree in Communications with double minors in Health Science and French in 2014. Her passion for education and helping others led her to pursue a master’s degree in Special Education and Behavior Analysis Therapy from George Mason University in 2018, a reflection of her drive, resilience, and commitment to lifelong learning.

Renesha’s connection to CSF-DC didn’t end after graduation. She began volunteering as a College Roundtable speaker, sharing her experiences and wisdom with current Scholars. Soon after, she became a Teaching Assistant for the Summer Academic Enrichment Program (SAEP) – her first official role with the organization that helped shape her journey.

More than a decade later, Renesha continues to pour her passion and expertise back into the CSF-DC community. Today, she serves as a Math and Science teacher for both Saturday Academy and SAEP, inspiring students the same way her mentors once inspired her.

“From high school to college, through my master’s program and even buying my first home, this community has celebrated every milestone with me,” Renesha said. “Now, giving back to the next generation, walking beside them the way CSF-DC once walked with me, is one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.”

This year, Renesha’s story came full circle as she returned to the spotlight as the Alumni Speaker at the 18th Annual CSF-DC/Costco Fundraising Breakfast. Her heartfelt message and personal testimony brought this year’s theme, “The Power of Belonging”, to life, reminding everyone in attendance of the deep and lasting impact of CSF-DC’s work.

Renesha’s journey from Scholar to mentor to teacher is a powerful testament to what happens when students are supported, believed in, and given the opportunity to thrive. She embodies the very spirit of CSF-DC, a community where every student can find belonging, purpose, and the confidence to succeed.