Testimonials

“I would like to provide testimony to Al Benoit's effectiveness in the areas of relationship building, project management and youth empowerment.  Al was the industry liaison for one of the early college and career schools under the NYC Department of Education and the City University of New York partnership.  Through that role, he was responsible for providing insight into the advertising and marketing fields, connecting agencies to the education realm, and supporting students with preparation for the world of work. 

During the years I worked with Al as a NYC DOE representative, I had the pleasure of witnessing his passion for the growth and development of students, his commitment to creating diversity within his industry, and his tirelessness in ensuring quality work-based learning experiences for black and brown students.  He was a consistent presence at the high schools he supported, and he was able to connect with all levels of students with his charisma and down-to-earth nature.  

Al is a creative at heart, but he brings a pragmatism to every project he is a part of.  He utilized his organization and leadership skills to move the work forward through his partnerships with the DOE and CUNY and he was tenacious in trying to promote opportunities for young people and preparing them to be successful.  Working with Al is always a pleasure, but it is also an inspiration to witness the energy and effort he puts into the work he does.”

— Takiyah Weekes, Director of Career Readiness with the P-TECH 9-14 Early College & Career Schools

“Al is a wonderful small business partner. He has provided on my CRM (customer relations marketing) strategies, content and digital marketing which has been valuable in helping grow my business.”

— Kolonji Murray, President & Owner, Tax Assurances

“Al has been an incredible partner and professional during our time working together. As our Education Liaison, he provided engagement opportunities with the industry, helped with curriculum development and provided internships and scholarships.

It is rare to find someone who is as mission driven and understands what it takes to facilitate opportunities for students. What was amazing about Al was his commitment to my underserved students. He was inspiring in his ability to relate to students and in simplifying challenging issues without talking down to them. I deeply appreciate all his efforts and the championing of our school and students.”

— Adaleza Michelena, Principal, High School for Innovation in Advertising & Media

“When I first started at MECA, I did not know where I would fit as a student in a school that surrounded themselves around advertising. I knew that to succeed I needed to learn skills but also obtain hands-on experience in a corporate environment. During my Junior year of high school, Al helped me and many of my classmates prepare for our summer jobs. By the time my internship was arriving, I received my excel certification but also learned how to interact in a corporate environment.

The company I was paired with was called Mother New York. I did a rotational internship where I found that I loved strategy in advertising. I got to work with many different brands, my favorite being Target. Not only did I get to be a part of their planning, but I got to be involved. With the campaign that they were launching during the fall of 2018, including a huge billboard in Times Square. If it was not for AI, I would still be a relative boy with no direction. Now, I’m a sophomore in college pursuing a Double major in Finance and Data Analytics, knowing what I want to do with my life.”

— Jefry Lopez, Chase Finance teamClarkson University, Class of 2022