25 Sep Russell Westbrook Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Westbrook Academy
South Gate, CA (Monday, September 23rd)
On Monday, NBA star and philanthropist Russell Westbrook unveiled the newly renovated Westbrook Academy campus in South Gate, celebrating the expansion of educational opportunities for local students. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone in Westbrook’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth through education and creating pathways to success.
The new campus, managed and operated by LA Promise Fund, features state-of-the-art classrooms and science labs, a film studio, a student lounge and library, and two wellness centers designed to support academic and personal growth. Westbrook Academy delivers world-class education to South and South East Los Angeles youth grades 6 through 12 with a focus on developing Academic Achievers, Athletes, Artists, and Activists committed to social change. The new facility comes years after the middle and high school operated out of temporary locations in South Los Angeles.
During the event, Westbrook delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing his passion for community upliftment and the importance of investing in the next generation. “Education is key to unlocking opportunity,” Westbrook stated. “This Academy is a place where dreams can be nurtured, and leaders can be made.”
Notably, the new facility includes Legacy Rooms, sponsored by partners such as Russell Westbrook, Pillars to Prosperity, Peter Jarowey, Arizona State University, and the Tull Family Foundation, and murals throughout the hallway inspired by social justice leaders and Los Angeles-based heroes including Rosa Parks, Kobe Bryant and Cesar Chavez. These spaces are designed to inspire students through mentorship, collaborative learning, and access to advanced technology, further enhancing the academy’s impact. Student Gabby Lopez commented about the new artwork, “As I walk these hallways I am cheered on by prominent leaders throughout history who are sharing with me their wisdom on how to care for myself and the community.”
“I’m beyond excited about the new Westbrook Academy campus,” said Tametria Perry, a local parent. “This facility offers so much more for my four sons than we could have ever imagined— from the upgrades, teachers, and college pathway programs, it’s clear that our children will have access to opportunities that will truly shape their futures. As a parent, knowing my child will be in an environment designed to foster learning, creativity, and personal growth is absolutely priceless.”
South Gate Mayor Gil Hurtado was in attendance and commented to the audience of community leaders, educators, and students, “On behalf of the City of South Gate, I’m honored to formally welcome Westbrook Academy to its new home,” said South Gate Mayor Gil Hurtado. “As a city, South Gate has been a leader in supporting educational innovation. We have the responsibility and honor of ensuring the proper infrastructure for education to create a safe learning environment for the students in our area.”
The event concluded with a tour of the campus, leaving attendees excited about the future of Westbrook Academy and the positive impact it will have on the community.
In 2021, Russell Westbrook, along with his wife, Nina, and longtime business partner, Donnell Beverly, partnered with LA Promise Fund to launch the Westbrook Academy, to ensure students in South and Southeast Los Angeles have access to a strong education, leadership development opportunities and high-quality athletic programs. Westbrook and Beverly also sit on the board to help oversee school developments.
To learn more about Westbrook Academy or enroll please visit westbrookacademy.org.
About Westbrook Academy:
Westbrook Academy is a public charter school that serves middle and high school students in the South and Southeast LA Regions of Los Angeles. Operated and managed by LA Promise Fund, Westbrook Academy’s mission is to develop academic achievers, athletes, artists, and activists. Learn more at https://westbrookacademy.org/
About LA Promise Fund:
LA Promise Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing Los Angeles students for success in college, career, and life. Working through a network of high-performing, community-based schools and a portfolio of programs that reach students throughout the County, the Fund creates vibrant community hubs and partnerships that foster motivated, engaged, and directed students poised for academic, professional, and personal success. Learn more at www.lapromisefund.org.
About Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation:
Founded in 2012, the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation aims to create pathways of empowerment for the underserved population. The foundation is committed to the perseverance of at-risk communities by implementing structured educational opportunities, workforce development, and accessible mental health resources. Learn more at www.whynotfoundation.org.
