Roland L. Byrd
1st Director of Project ENRICH (1985–2000; 2005–2010)
Roland L. Byrd
DIRECTOR (1985–2000; 2005–2010)
Roland L. Byrd is the founding director of Project ENRICH and a visionary leader who laid the foundation for one of the most impactful college preparatory programs in the region. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Morgan State College (University), a Master of Education in Guidance & Counseling from Bowie State College (University), and coursework toward a Ph.D. in Psycho-Educational Studies at Howard University, Byrd dedicated his career to student success and educational advancement.
Under his leadership, Project ENRICH was established as a structured four-year college preparatory program, assisting high school students (grades 9-12) in successfully navigating their path to college matriculation. His work in forging strong relationships with public and private school system personnel— particularly guidance counselors—helped validate the program and ensured a steady stream of students who would benefit most from its offerings. He was instrumental in broadening students’ awareness of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as viable pathways to higher education, incorporating biannual college tours and hosting program meetings at an HBCU. Additionally, he introduced written and speaking competitions within grade levels, with winning essays published annually.
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Byrd’s leadership saw Project ENRICH grow to an average annual enrollment of 220 students, with an all- time high of 96 incoming ninth graders. One of the key challenges he faced was participant retention from year to year. To address this, he implemented a $25 annual registration fee, ensuring that students completing the four-year program would receive these accumulated funds, along with other financial awards, as scholarships upon graduation.
His vision was clear—to guide students toward high school completion, prepare them for college, and instill in them the motivation to pursue higher education. His most memorable moments included seeing fraternity brothers enroll their children in the program and parents signing up all their children, demonstrating deep faith in the program’s impact. Even more rewarding were the students who returned to share their college experiences and express their gratitude for Project ENRICH’s role in their success.
His advice to future directors is simple yet powerful: You must believe in your product and commit yourself to it. The effort you put forth displays your commitment.
Today,RolandL.Byrdcontinuestoserveonthecommitteethatoverseestheoperationsandfunctionsof Project ENRICH. He remains an invaluable resource to the program and can be contacted through the current leadership.