Significant Transition in Leadership
Trent t Aldridge, Chief Executive Officer (Photo courtesy of SEI)
Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI), a nationally recognized youth development organization, is pleased to announce that Trent Aldridge will succeed Tony Hopson, Sr. as CEO. Founder Tony Hopson, Sr. will be transitioning to a new role after an illustrious career of over 43 years dedicated to uplifting the lives of African American youth and their families in the Portland metro area.
Tony, a Portland native and graduate of Jefferson High School, founded SEI in 1981. Initially conceived as a one-week Enhancement Camp aimed at offering positive alternatives for African American teens, SEI quickly expanded under Tony's visionary leadership. By 1989, it had become a year-round program offering academic support and comprehensive wraparound services. In 1997, SEI opened the Center for Self Enhancement, which now serves thousands of youths and families annually, providing critical resources that enhance every aspect of a student's life. Over the years, SEI has developed from a youth-serving basketball camp into the largest Black-led human services organization in the State of Oregon. SEI plays a critical role in maintaining Jefferson High School's presence in the community and now boasts two buildings, five properties used for low-income housing programs, replication of the SEI model in Miami, FL and Atlanta, GA.
Tony's contributions to education and social entrepreneurship have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards locally and nationally, including the national "Points of Light" award, Urban League of Portland's "Equal Opportunity Award," the Black United Fund's "Legacy Award," and the "Distinguished Service Award" from the University of Oregon. He has also been a prominent advocate for underserved youth at national forums such as the Harvard School of Education and the Boston College Education Roundtable. Under his leadership, Self Enhancement, Inc. was the recipient of the federal Promise Neighborhood Initiative grant award of over $28 million, which fosters partnerships between students and families, community partners, schools, local government, and businesses.
Tony's legacy is defined by his relentless passion for addressing the educational and social challenges faced by children of color and those living in poverty. His work has made a profound impact not only in Portland, but also on a national scale. To honor his legacy, the Center for Self Enhancement is being renamed the Tony Hopson, Sr. Center for Self Enhancement.
Trent Aldridge is taking the helm as CEO after a national search through Motus Recruiting and approval from the SEI Board of Directors. Previously serving as SEl's Chief Program Officer, Trent is an expert in developing potential and is an avid supporter of innovation. For the past 20 plus years, Trent's accomplishments include leading SEl's Pamplin Leadership Program, expanding SEl's SUN community presence from serving four public schools to 18 campuses, and oversight of $25M+ operating budgets. As Chief Program Officer, Trent directed five departments, 24 service sites, and 225 full- and part-time staff. In addition to his invaluable contributions to SEI as an organization, Trent has mentored hundreds of SEI students and staff, helping them realize their full potential. Many of his mentees have gone on to become leaders within SEI and in major companies and service organizations across the region.
Trent was raised in Portland, Oregon by a single mother. He attended Portland Public Schools, graduating from Benson High School. He then went on to Portland State University to study Communications and Black Studies. Trent is a devoted family man and tech enthusiast, who learned from his mother, a Portland Public Schools teacher, the importance of pouring into his community.
"I am humbled and honored to continue the incredible legacy that Tony Hopson, Sr. has built," said Trent Aldridge. "SEI has been a pillar of strength and support in our community, and I am dedicated to furthering our mission and expanding our impact. Together, we will continue to create positive change and provide hope for future generations."
Tony expressed his confidence in Trent's leadership, stating, "Trent has been an integral part of SEl's success. His innovative approach and deep commitment to our mission make him the perfect person to lead SEI into the future. I am excited to see the continued growth and impact of SEI under his leadership."