Bishop T.D. Jakes Launches Virtual STEAM Summer Program for Underserved Youth

Dallas, TX — Bishop T.D. Jakes, renowned pastor, author, and philanthropist, is taking a bold step to bridge the educational gap for underserved youth through a free, five-week summer academy focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM).

Offered entirely online through the T.D. Jakes Foundation, the program is designed to expose children and teens to new opportunities and empower them to excel in fields crucial for the future economy.

“What we are exposed to is what we excel at,” said Bishop Jakes, founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas.

Partners in Progress

In a powerful display of community collaboration, the STEAM Academy is backed by partnerships with the City of Dallas, the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, Texas Instruments, and Microsoft. Together, these organizations aim to provide free access to high-quality educational experiences for students who might otherwise be left behind.

“We’re working in partnership with our current mayor. We’re working with the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, Texas Instruments and Microsoft to provide a free program for underserved communities,” Bishop Jakes explained.

Exposing Youth to New Pathways

Bishop Jakes emphasized that exposure is the key to unlocking potential. While many inner-city children find success in sports, music, and ministry due to early exposure, he believes it’s time to introduce them to disciplines that can define the next generation of innovators and leaders.

“They’ve been exposed to basketball. They’ve excelled at it. They’ve been exposed to football. They’ve excelled at it. Exposed to preachers. Excelled at it. Hip-hop. Excelled at it,” Jakes said. “We have to expose them to science, technology, engineering, arts and math. And if we do that, we’ll secure their future.”

The STEAM Academy will offer engaging lessons, projects, and virtual mentorship, giving students a firsthand look into careers and skills that power industries like tech, engineering, design, and beyond.

Beyond Education: A Vision for Safer Communities

For Bishop Jakes, the program is not just about academics—it’s also about transforming communities.

“It’ll cut down on the violence. I’ve never been mugged by anybody who had to go to work in the morning,” Jakes said. “It’ll cut down on the violence by creating an alternative for our children and make the world a better place for our children and grandchildren.”

By equipping young people with knowledge and purpose, Jakes hopes to offer pathways away from crime and toward sustainable careers, ultimately benefiting families and neighborhoods across Dallas and beyond.

How to Learn More

Families interested in enrolling their children in the STEAM Academy can find more information and registration details at tdjfoundation.org/steam-academy-2020.