On September 19, 2017, The Germination Project brought together 500 plus Philadelphians at the Union League to announce its third class of Student Fellows in a theatrical affair anchored by the induction of 17 of the best and brightest high-schoolers from the region in an NBA-style draft.

Draft picks were announced by local influence makers including Philadelphia Eagles Safety Malcolm Jenkins, The Philadelphia Citizen co-founder Larry Platt, and Philadelphia Eagles broadcaster and former Eagles wide receiver Mike Quick.

The Icon Award was presented to Dr. Larry Kaiser on behalf of Temple University Hospital for its role in serving as the de facto public hospital of Philadelphia and helping to improve the lives of Philadelphia’s most vulnerable neighbors. Pennsylvania State Treasurer Joe Torsella provided keynote remarks and Gala Chair, Temple University Provost JoAnne Epps, spoke to the audience about giving our young leaders a world in which they have the best chance to succeed.

Performances by DJ Royale, DJ Eddie Tully, Angell Morris, Philly Youth Poetry Movement, Brian Fitzy, Impulse music group.