SACRAMENTO, CA, NOVEMBER 28, 2023 - Renowned author, Casanya Ursery, unveils an enchanting children's book, "Casey Goes To Cornell," the inaugural installment of the captivating "Casey & Friends Go To College" series.

Drawing inspiration from Ursery’s personal dream of attending Cornell University, the story takes young readers on a heartwarming adventure with Casey, a bright young girl from Carson, California, as she navigates the challenges and triumphs of her journey to an Ivy League institution on the other side of the country. The narrative, while tailored for children, carries a poignant message aimed at inspiring young minds, particularly students of color, by demystifying the experience of attending prestigious universities.

"Casey Goes To Cornell" is a celebration of determination, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams. It invites children to explore the possibilities of higher education, providing a positive narrative that showcases the rewards of hard work and resilience.

Ursery shares, "This book is not just about Casey or even just about students of color. It's about empowering all young readers to dream beyond what may be considered as possible. This story doesn’t mirror my real-life experience - it took me nearly 30 years to realize that dream. But, I like to think that hearing stories like this as a child would have helped me by demystifying the Ivy League experience and put me on a path that looks more like Casey’s."
Key Highlights of "Casey Goes To Cornell":

1. Inspired by a Personal Dream: The book is a heartfelt narrative inspired by Casanya Ursery's personal dream of attending Cornell University, demonstrating that dreams can indeed become reality with dedication and perseverance.

2. Demystifying Ivy League Schools: Targeting young readers, especially black students, the story colors Ivy League education as tangible, making higher education more accessible and relatable.

3. Launch of "Casey & Friends Go To College" Series: The book marks the debut of an exciting series that aims to inspire and educate young minds about the possibilities of attending college, starting with Casey's journey.

4. Available for Speaking Opportunities: The author and illustrator, Casanya Ursery, is available for speaking engagements to share insights into her writing process and the importance of diversity in college admissions. As a dynamic speaker, Usery brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to engage audiences of all ages.

The release of "Casey Goes To Cornell" aligns with Ursery's commitment to education and empowerment. The book is now available on Amazon (https://amzn.to/47t5Q3n) and Bookshop.org (https://bookshop.org/a/97392/9798857592823). For media inquiries, review copies, or speaking engagement requests, please contact Casanya Ursery at [email protected] or 916-538-4785.

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About the Author

Casanya “Casey” Ursery is an organizational development and public policy consultant that is passionate about education and empowerment. Inspired by personal experiences, Casanya seeks to inspire young minds through captivating storytelling. "Casey Goes To Cornell" is the first of many adventures in the "Casey & Friends Go To College" series, designed to demystify higher education and instill the belief that dreams can become a reality.

Casanya’s literary achievements are noteworthy, having published two other children's books that she authored and illustrated: "The Little Letter a" and "How To Build a Boat." She has also illustrated, edited and published a self-help book titled "A Winning Marriage." From her early years, Casanya has been passionate about the art of writing, showcasing a lifelong dedication to the craft that continues to evolve and inspire.

Casanya is available for speaking engagements to share insights into her creative process, campus diversity, and the journey of turning dreams into accomplishments.