For more than two decades, educator, researcher, and entrepreneur Dr. Chanel Gaither has dedicated her life to creating pathways for Black scholars to thrive. Now, through Ascend Legacy Academy, she is building what she describes as more than a school, a movement centered on excellence, identity, leadership, and legacy.
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Dr. Gaither’s connection to Delaware runs deep. Her journey in the First State began through her nonprofit, Minorities Achieving Collegiate Success (MACS), which she launched at Dover High School under the leadership of Gene Montano. Over the years, MACS grew into a nationally recognized support system helping students navigate the college admissions process and earn scholarship opportunities.
“What began in one high school grew into a movement,” Gaither said, reflecting on the organization’s growth and impact. MACS scholars have achieved a 100% college entry rate, a 98% four-year graduation rate, and collectively earned more than $250 million in scholarships.
Her educational journey later led her to the University of Delaware, where she completed doctoral studies focused on historically Black boarding schools. She says her time there transformed the way she approached education and leadership, particularly during the racial reckoning following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.
That research ultimately became the foundation for Ascend Legacy Academy, a Black-owned international boarding school model created specifically to affirm, educate, and empower Black male scholars.
“Black boys are one of the most misunderstood and underserved groups in American education,” Gaither explained. “At ALA, we flip the script entirely.”
The academy offers a unique educational experience centered around experiential learning, leadership development, research, entrepreneurship, wellness, faith, and global exposure. Students graduate not only with a diploma, but also specialized certifications in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Social Justice, Civic Engagement, and entrepreneurship through the school’s “Black Wall Street” curriculum.
Gaither describes Ascend Legacy Academy as part of a larger effort to reclaim the legacy of historically Black boarding schools that once served as pillars of excellence before many disappeared following desegregation.
“Being the first Black-owned, single-gender, international boarding school of this kind in decades is not a title I take lightly,” she said. “It is a responsibility, a charge, and an honor.”
The vision does not stop there.
Gaither says plans are already underway for international expansion, including an affiliate school in Dubai, building on relationships she established through MACS international programs beginning in 2017. She also revealed that early-stage plans are being developed for a girls academy in North Carolina.
At the center of all her work is a commitment to building legacy — something she says is deeply personal.
“It means building something that will outlast me,” Gaither shared. “I built the school instead.”
Today, Dr. Gaither continues to challenge traditional educational models while creating spaces where Black scholars are not simply accommodated, but fully seen, affirmed, and prepared to lead.
For more information about Ascend Legacy Academy, visit the school’s website or follow @ascendlegacyacademy online.
