USTA Foundation Hosts 24 Student-Athletes for Prestigious Haber Career Excellence Week During the 2025 US Open

The USTA Foundation, the social impact arm of the United States Tennis Association, hosted 24 high-performing student-athletes from across the country for its annual Haber Career Excellence Week program. Held during the second week of the US Open main draw, the program brings selected students to New York City for a week of events focused on tennis, career exploration, and leadership development.

Photo credit: USTA Foundation/ Arulram Sriram.

The students, who were nominated by their coaches, are participants in the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) network. Created in 1969 by tennis legend Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder, the network is the core initiative of the USTA Foundation and prepares young people from under-resourced communities for life on and off the court by providing them access to tennis, academic support services, career readiness programs, and mentorship opportunities.

During the trip, students participated in a wide variety of activities, which included playing tennis, a special meet-and-greet with 2017 US Open women singles champion Sloane Stephens at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, and a panel discussion with USTA Foundation supporter, businessman, and “Shark Tank” investor Daymond John and founder and CEO of Crash Champions, Matt Ebert.

Photo credit: USTA Foundation/ Arulram Sriram.

Students also had the opportunity to meet with leaders from IHG, H/2 Capital Partners, EY, Morrison & Cohen LLP, and ABC Studio, and visit popular New York City attractions. The week culminated with the AMEX Excellence Cup, a prestigious tennis competition held on US Open courts.

Photo credit: USTA Foundation/ Arulram Sriram.

“Haber Career Excellence Week is not just about tennis; it’s about opening doors and showing our young people that their future can be just as big as their dreams,” said USTA Foundation CEO Ginny Ehrlich. “We are grateful to our partners for helping us provide these students the opportunity to learn about different careers and industries, allowing them to see what’s possible. Together, we are helping them to build confidence in whatever path they choose in life.” 

Below are the 24 student-athletes who participated in the 2025 Haber Career Excellence Week:

Photo credit: USTA Foundation.

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Courtesy of the USTA Foundation. Top photo credit: USTA Foundation/ Arulram Sriram.