How COBA & ETEC Are Shaping Futures for Hartford Youth – As Seen on NBC Connecticut
On March 15, 2025, NBC Connecticut aired a heartwarming and powerful segment that put a spotlight on the inspiring work being done by Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA) and Elite Tertiary Education Consulting (ETEC). Through the lens of the Local Impact Grant, this story is a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose — and how local heroes are building up the next generation.
The segment, led by Taylor Kinzler, highlights COBA’s newest initiative: an educational assistance program led by Pamela Floyd-Cranford, COBA’s Director of Higher Learning. Backed by her extensive experience as a former Director at the Department of Children and Families — where she helped more than 2,000 students get into college — “Miss Pam” is now channeling her expertise into supporting COBA youth in unlocking their academic potential.
At the heart of the piece is Johnny Callas, a world championship boxing referee, Connecticut Boxing Hall of Famer, and founder of COBA. For years, Callas has used boxing as a tool to connect with and uplift youth in Greater Hartford, offering them discipline, structure, and most importantly — hope.
“Boxing teaches you to get back up,” Callas says in the segment. “And that’s what we’re trying to instill — that fight to keep going, to believe in yourself, and to dream bigger.”
Now, with the addition of an academic bridge built by Floyd-Cranford and ETEC’s guidance on college and career pathways, COBA is becoming more than a gym — it’s a launchpad for life.
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The segment closes with touching interviews from two COBA kids who speak about how the program has changed their outlook on life. They talk about increased self-esteem, new doors being opened, and a renewed belief that college is within reach.
This partnership between COBA and ETEC is not only reshaping the lives of individual students — it’s creating ripple effects across the community.
Stay connected with us as we continue to empower our youth — one step, one student, and one success story at a time.
