About Us
Mission
We're a free, year-round program for Waukegan students in grades 6–12. Through our three pillars — Education, Athletics, and Exploration — we help students discover what they're capable of, experience more than their own neighborhood, and build the skills to succeed in school, in their community, and in life.
Education creates opportunity. Athletics creates resilience.
Exploration creates empowerment.
History
2012
A Bigger World. It started with a belief that travel changes how students see themselves. Matt and Megan Schrecengost founded A Bigger World to give students the chance to see past their neighborhood — to visit colleges, explore new cities, and imagine a bigger future.
2020
The Academy. When COVID shut down the usual programming, we pivoted. The Academy launched as a structured out-of-school program — education, exploration, and basketball — starting with just 6 students. The model worked.
Today
100+ Students Strong. From those first 6 students, we've grown to work with over 200 students over the last 6 years. We have grown with our students and the program now includes a full high school component. Our first graduating class went five-for-five to four year universities and we are proud to support them through college.
The Team
Executive Director
Brandon Massey
Director of Academics
Miranda VanCleve
Student Success Coordinator
Cindy Bahena
Basketball Operations
Michael Petty
Program Coordinator
Jennifer Weaver
Coach
Deshawn Davidson
Coach
Dravon Clayborn
Our Partners
Our partners help make our work possible every day and multiply our impact. Schools, community organizations, and local businesses open doors for our students — sharing spaces, resources, and experiences they wouldn't otherwise have.
Interested in partnering with The Academy?
Reach out at info@abwtheacademy.org.
Donate Today
To support our mission to provide high quality out-of-school programming, please consider a gift of any amount. Every contribution goes directly to the students.
Support a Student's Future
Sponsor, volunteer, or partner with The Academy.
