Ashanti Returns to Glen Cove High School

GLEN COVE, NEW YORK (AUGUST 2022) — Grammy award-winning R&B artist Ashanti, born Ashanti Shequoiya Douglas, walked the halls of Glen Cove High School once again over two decades after singing, studying, running track and graduating from her alma mater.

The 41-year-old musician reflected on her momentous career, lessons she learned along the way and her appreciation for the diversity and culture of the Glen Cove community during an interview for the CBS Mornings show with host Nate Burleson, to air Monday, August 15.

“Ashanti’s experience as a student here and the gratitude she expressed for her community are a testament to the values and goals of the Glen Cove family. It’s an honor to see such an established and talented musician come back to her high school and convey that message,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maria Rianna.

During her visit, Ashanti shared words of encouragement with Glen Cove High School chorus students and told the room of aspiring singers that she didn’t anticipate becoming a global sensation when she stood in their place as a student. She explained that she was drawn to music, but her tremendous success almost came as a surprise. Before leaving, she urged the students to continue pursuing their passions because you never know where the hard work will lead you.

The poignant meet-and-greet included an impromptu performance from one student, Shye Roberts. After being encouraged by Ashanti to sing, Shye gave a powerful, soulful rendition of Adele’s chart-topping hit, When We Were Young.

Ashanti and Nate Burleson also took a stroll through the high school as Ashanti recalled her favorite memories and pointed out her own photo on a wall of alumni student athletes. Ashanti not only sang and ran track during her high school career, she also acted in several of Glen Cove’s plays. In fact, her interview took place on the same stage she performed as a teenager.

Ashanti’s music career began to take off shortly after she graduated from Glen Cove High School in 1998. In 2002 she was signed to the major record label Murder Inc. Records and released two of that year’s biggest hits: What's Luv? with rapper Fat Joe and Always on Time with rapper Ja Rule.

When she spoke about her upbringing in the interview, Ashanti expressed gratitude in having grown up in Glen Cove and praised her hometown for its diversity and culture. She also spoke about how her mother exemplifies what it means to be a “momager,” discussed her decision to start her own record label Written Entertainment, reflected on earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and teased what’s to come, among other topics.

For more information about the Glen Cove City School District, please visit the District’s website at www.glencoveschools.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/glencovecityschooldistrict.