Charles Barkley donates $1M to New Orleans school initiative

NBA legend Charles Barkley has made a significant contribution to St. Mary’s Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school in New Orleans, by donating $100,000 as part of a larger commitment of $1 million. This donation was inspired by the remarkable achievements of two students, Calcea Johnson and Ne’Kiya Jackson, who made headlines for their groundbreaking mathematical discovery regarding the Pythagorean theorem. Their work was featured on the news program '60 Minutes' and showcased at a prestigious mathematical conference in 2023. The school’s president, Pamela Rogers, expressed gratitude for Barkley’s generosity, emphasizing how it will enhance the educational experience for students and support their aspirations. The funds are intended to provide opportunities for growth both academically and within the community, reinforcing the school’s mission to educate young women. Following their graduation, both Johnson and Jackson have pursued higher education, with Johnson studying environmental engineering at LSU and Jackson attending Xavier University of Louisiana for pharmacy. Their achievements not only highlight the potential of students at St. Mary’s Academy but also reflect the positive impact of community support on educational initiatives. Barkley’s commitment to education and empowerment for future generations is evident through this donation. His foundation aims to transform lives by providing opportunities, and this initiative is a testament to his dedication to supporting young girls in New Orleans as they strive to achieve their dreams.