Rising Is a Choice.
Leadership Is the Outcome.
Not every journey starts the same—but every future can rise with the right foundation.
This is where purpose meets preparation.
Hi, I'm
Dr. Sylvester White
I help schools, organizations, and communities create pathways that empower young Black men to rise with purpose, leadership, and lasting impact.
Every young man deserves to see himself as capable, called, and equipped to lead. I know what it feels like to doubt your potential — to wonder if your voice, your background, or your story is enough.
But I also know what happens when you decide to rise. Ascend to Rise isn’t just a title. It’s a mindset. It’s a declaration that no matter where you start, you can grow, lead, and impact the world.
My mission is simple — to help young Black men and future leaders discover the greatness already within them, and to give them the tools to walk boldly in their purpose.
Dr. White’s books are designed to move educators from awareness to action.
Each resource offers practical insight, guided reflection, and real-world strategies to help teachers and leaders deepen their understanding of equity, strengthen their impact, and support students in meaningful ways.
These tools are meant to be used, revisited, and applied in daily practice.
From access to Ascend
From Access to Ascend to Rise is a powerful call to action for young Black men to overcome barriers, embrace their identity, and step boldly into leadership. Through real stories, practical guidance, and timeless principles, Dr. White empowers readers to rise above limitations, lead with purpose, and create lasting impact in their lives, schools, and communities.
From Access to AScend- The Guide
From Access to Ascend is a practical and reflective guide designed to help institutions, educators, and leaders move beyond access toward meaningful success for Black men in higher education. While opportunity opens doors, this guide focuses on what happens next—belonging, voice, leadership development, and sustained support.
Grounded in equity and lived experience, this guide provides insight, reflection, and strategic direction to help create environments where Black men are not only retained, but empowered to rise, lead, and transform their communities. It is a call to action for those committed to shifting systems, strengthening culture, and turning intention into lasting impact.
Rooted in Equity- Journal
The Rooted in Equity Journal is a guided reflection tool designed to help educators, leaders, and practitioners move from intention to action. Through thoughtful prompts and space for honest reflection, this journal supports deeper awareness, personal growth, and practical application of equity-centered leadership.
Rooted in purpose and accountability, it invites readers to examine beliefs, challenge systems, and cultivate environments where belonging, access, and opportunity are lived experiences—not just ideals.
About Dr. White
Dr. Sylvester White is an educator, speaker, and leadership coach dedicated to helping young Black men rise into their full potential. With more than two decades of experience in education and mentoring, Dr. White has made it his life’s mission to help the next generation overcome barriers, embrace their identity, and lead with confidence and purpose.
He is the founder of Ascend to Rise — a leadership and empowerment initiative that equips students and emerging professionals with practical tools for academic success, personal growth, and character development.
Book Dr. White to Speak or Train for Your Organization