News from the ICEF Network
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ICEF ALUM: THE OLYMPIAN
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Read Our Q&A With Nia Toliver
Q: Let’s start in the present. Where are you and what is coming up in your rugby future?
Right now, I’m focused on training and getting back to my best after some setbacks. My main goal is to keep improving, stay healthy, and be ready for the next World Series stop.
Q: You previously earned a spot on the Olympic team. Was that an early goal of yours, or did that manifest itself as you evolved in the rugby world?
I didn’t grow up thinking about the Olympics because rugby wasn’t in the picture for me early on. But once I started playing and seeing how far I could go, the Olympic dream became real. It wasn’t just about making the team—it was about proving to myself that I could compete at the highest level.
Q: The Olympics itself. How do you sum up that experience in total?
It was an intense and surreal experience. There’s nothing like representing your country on the biggest stage. The preparation, the sacrifices, the pressure—it all comes together in a way that’s hard to describe. More than anything, it reinforced my love for the game and the power of sport to bring people together.
Q: Let’s rewind to your backstory - who is Nia Toliver and where did you come from? What’s your story?
I’m from South Central Los Angeles, and I grew up in an environment where opportunities weren’t always obvious or easily accessible. I wasn’t handed a clear path—I had to find it. Sports, and rugby in particular, opened doors for me, giving me a way to travel, compete, and build a future I never imagined when I was younger.
Q: Related to ICEF, let’s think back to day one of rugby. How did you get involved, and how did you grow to appreciate the value of the sport in those early days?
I got into rugby through ICEF, and at first, I had no idea what I was getting into. It wasn’t a sport I grew up watching or even knew existed. But once I started playing, I fell in love with the physicality, the teamwork, and the culture. ICEF helped me see that rugby was more than just a sport—it was an opportunity to grow, travel, and challenge myself in ways I never expected.
Q: With ICEF Rugby comes many other enrichment opportunities like regional, national, and global travel. What opportunities did you enjoy during your time here at ICEF?
ICEF gave me the chance to travel and experience the world in a way I wouldn’t have otherwise. Competing in different states, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and even traveling internationally—it all helped shape my perspective. Those experiences showed me that my dreams weren’t limited to where I was from; there was a whole world out there waiting to be explored.
Q: Some underserved students in urban settings find it hard to comprehend access to amazing opportunities outside of their environs. It just seems so far away and unattainable. How would you counsel students who feel like great things are out of their reach?
I’d tell them that I was in their shoes once. I know what it feels like to think certain opportunities aren’t meant for you. But the truth is, you have to believe in yourself before anyone else will. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away—just take the first step. Work hard, stay open to new experiences, and trust that small opportunities can lead to bigger ones.
Q: ICEF Rugby stresses leadership qualities. Do you feel like that rubbed off on you as you emerged in the world rugby spotlight?
Definitely. ICEF helped me understand that leadership isn’t just about being vocal—it’s about leading by example, being accountable, and lifting up those around you. Those lessons stuck with me as I moved up in the rugby world, and they continue to shape how I carry myself on and off the field.
Q: US Rugby has undoubtedly taken you many amazing places. What’s the most amazing, awe-inspiring place that you’ve experienced thanks to the global nature of the sport?
Japan stands out the most. Playing rugby there was an incredible experience—not just because of the competition, but because of the culture, the people, and the way the game is respected. Winning in Japan with my team was a highlight of my career, and it showed me how rugby truly connects people across the world.
Q: Rugby is a physically taxing sport. Eventually, your body will tell you that it’s had enough. What’s your plan when the next phase of your life arrives? Future goals and objectives?
I’ve thought about this a lot. When my playing days are over, I want to stay involved in rugby, whether that’s through coaching or mentorship. Beyond that, I have big goals outside of sports—I want to open an elderly care home and a mental health clinic in Los Angeles. Seeing how other countries, especially Japan, care for their elderly inspired me, and I want to bring that same level of care and support to my community.
Right now, I’m focused on training and getting back to my best after some setbacks. My main goal is to keep improving, stay healthy, and be ready for the next World Series stop.
Q: You previously earned a spot on the Olympic team. Was that an early goal of yours, or did that manifest itself as you evolved in the rugby world?
I didn’t grow up thinking about the Olympics because rugby wasn’t in the picture for me early on. But once I started playing and seeing how far I could go, the Olympic dream became real. It wasn’t just about making the team—it was about proving to myself that I could compete at the highest level.
Q: The Olympics itself. How do you sum up that experience in total?
It was an intense and surreal experience. There’s nothing like representing your country on the biggest stage. The preparation, the sacrifices, the pressure—it all comes together in a way that’s hard to describe. More than anything, it reinforced my love for the game and the power of sport to bring people together.
Q: Let’s rewind to your backstory - who is Nia Toliver and where did you come from? What’s your story?
I’m from South Central Los Angeles, and I grew up in an environment where opportunities weren’t always obvious or easily accessible. I wasn’t handed a clear path—I had to find it. Sports, and rugby in particular, opened doors for me, giving me a way to travel, compete, and build a future I never imagined when I was younger.
Q: Related to ICEF, let’s think back to day one of rugby. How did you get involved, and how did you grow to appreciate the value of the sport in those early days?
I got into rugby through ICEF, and at first, I had no idea what I was getting into. It wasn’t a sport I grew up watching or even knew existed. But once I started playing, I fell in love with the physicality, the teamwork, and the culture. ICEF helped me see that rugby was more than just a sport—it was an opportunity to grow, travel, and challenge myself in ways I never expected.
Q: With ICEF Rugby comes many other enrichment opportunities like regional, national, and global travel. What opportunities did you enjoy during your time here at ICEF?
ICEF gave me the chance to travel and experience the world in a way I wouldn’t have otherwise. Competing in different states, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and even traveling internationally—it all helped shape my perspective. Those experiences showed me that my dreams weren’t limited to where I was from; there was a whole world out there waiting to be explored.
Q: Some underserved students in urban settings find it hard to comprehend access to amazing opportunities outside of their environs. It just seems so far away and unattainable. How would you counsel students who feel like great things are out of their reach?
I’d tell them that I was in their shoes once. I know what it feels like to think certain opportunities aren’t meant for you. But the truth is, you have to believe in yourself before anyone else will. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away—just take the first step. Work hard, stay open to new experiences, and trust that small opportunities can lead to bigger ones.
Q: ICEF Rugby stresses leadership qualities. Do you feel like that rubbed off on you as you emerged in the world rugby spotlight?
Definitely. ICEF helped me understand that leadership isn’t just about being vocal—it’s about leading by example, being accountable, and lifting up those around you. Those lessons stuck with me as I moved up in the rugby world, and they continue to shape how I carry myself on and off the field.
Q: US Rugby has undoubtedly taken you many amazing places. What’s the most amazing, awe-inspiring place that you’ve experienced thanks to the global nature of the sport?
Japan stands out the most. Playing rugby there was an incredible experience—not just because of the competition, but because of the culture, the people, and the way the game is respected. Winning in Japan with my team was a highlight of my career, and it showed me how rugby truly connects people across the world.
Q: Rugby is a physically taxing sport. Eventually, your body will tell you that it’s had enough. What’s your plan when the next phase of your life arrives? Future goals and objectives?
I’ve thought about this a lot. When my playing days are over, I want to stay involved in rugby, whether that’s through coaching or mentorship. Beyond that, I have big goals outside of sports—I want to open an elderly care home and a mental health clinic in Los Angeles. Seeing how other countries, especially Japan, care for their elderly inspired me, and I want to bring that same level of care and support to my community.
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ICEF Launches Online Community Resource Hub for FamiliesDeveloped by the ICEF Community Schools team, the Community Resource Hub gathers key online links and contact information for organizations focused on various services including housing, juvenile services, immigration, food security, and more.
Read the full story below. |
Read About ICEF's Community Resource Hub
1.06.25 | ICEF Public Schools has launched an online destination for social service resources in the greater Los Angeles area, easing access to various agencies and providers offering services to LA-area youngsters and their families.
Developed by the ICEF Community Schools team, the Community Resource Hub gathers key online links and contact information for organizations focused on various services including housing, juvenile services, immigration, food security, and more.
While not meant to be an exhaustive list, the Community Resource Hub - which will update frequently as new service organizations are added - helps guide families to essential local, city, and state providers who can best meet their needs outside of the school surrounding.
With questions about the Community Resource Hub, or to add organizations and providers, please contact Community Schools program coordinator Brandan Aldridge.
Developed by the ICEF Community Schools team, the Community Resource Hub gathers key online links and contact information for organizations focused on various services including housing, juvenile services, immigration, food security, and more.
While not meant to be an exhaustive list, the Community Resource Hub - which will update frequently as new service organizations are added - helps guide families to essential local, city, and state providers who can best meet their needs outside of the school surrounding.
With questions about the Community Resource Hub, or to add organizations and providers, please contact Community Schools program coordinator Brandan Aldridge.
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ICEF Announces TyAnthony Davis as new President/CEO“I am honored to join ICEF Public Schools as Chief Executive Officer. For over 25 years, ICEF has been a beacon of educational excellence in Los Angeles, steadfastly committed to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential,” said Mr. Davis. “As we look to the future, my vision is to build upon ICEF’s history of service to the community, enhancing our capacity to serve more students and families, and providing the foundation for students to realize their dreams and lead self-determined lives.”
Read the full announcement below. |
Read About New ICEF CEO TyAnthony Davis
11.22.24 | Inner City Education Foundation (ICEF) today announced that TyAnthony Davis has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Operating seven schools within Los Angeles and Inglewood Unified School Districts, ICEF Public Schools prepares students of all academic aptitudes to function successfully in college, career, and life.
Mr. Davis is an education executive with nearly twenty years of academic and professional experience. Mr. Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies from Yale University, an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and is a licensed attorney in California.
He began his academic career as a 4th grade teacher with Teach for America in Las Vegas. He launched his legal career in Los Angeles working in corporate transactions and venture capital at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP. After practicing law, he realized his true passion was in education and founded a charter school, Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, in 2017.
He began his academic career as a 4th grade teacher with Teach for America in Las Vegas. He launched his legal career in Los Angeles working in corporate transactions and venture capital at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP. After practicing law, he realized his true passion was in education and founded a charter school, Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, in 2017.
At Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, Mr. Davis created innovative learning environments that blended instruction with technology and focused on uplifting and strengthening communications as a key skill for success in career and life. And in 2023, Mr. Davis co-founded Enlighten AI, an education technology company leveraging AI to make the hard work of teaching more sustainable.
“Mr. Davis’ expertise and proven track record of accountability demonstrates clear alignment with ICEF’s strategic path forward,” said Dr. Angila Romious, Chair, ICEF Board of Directors. “The ICEF Board of Directors found Mr. Davis’ unique blend of educational technology, entrepreneurial and financial acumen, and innovative practices to problem solving, as defining characteristics that will lead to long-term advancement of student academic outcomes that parents and our community have come to know and expect from us.”
“I am honored to join ICEF Public Schools as Chief Executive Officer. For over 25 years, ICEF has been a beacon of educational excellence in Los Angeles, steadfastly committed to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential,” added Mr. Davis. “As we look to the future, my vision is to build upon ICEF’s history of service to the community, enhancing our capacity to serve more students and families, and providing the foundation for students to realize their dreams and lead self-determined lives.”
Mr. Davis succeeds Parker Hudnut who served as Chief Executive Officer for 13 years. Mr. Hudnut’s tenure of accomplishments included positioning ICEF on strong financial footing and overseeing ICEF’s new 2023 to 2026 strategic plan.
“We are incredibly grateful for Parker’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff during his tenure with us. Because of Parker’s leadership, we are a stronger and more visionary team,” continued Dr. Romious.
Mr. Davis’ appointment comes following a robust and competitive national search process with support from The Hawkins Company, a talent acquisition and management company with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The search process was led by a committee of the ICEF Board, headed by Chair Romious together with two other executive committee members, Board member Dana Henry and Board member William “Boutie” Lucas.
Mr. Davis is an education executive with nearly twenty years of academic and professional experience. Mr. Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies from Yale University, an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and is a licensed attorney in California.
He began his academic career as a 4th grade teacher with Teach for America in Las Vegas. He launched his legal career in Los Angeles working in corporate transactions and venture capital at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP. After practicing law, he realized his true passion was in education and founded a charter school, Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, in 2017.
He began his academic career as a 4th grade teacher with Teach for America in Las Vegas. He launched his legal career in Los Angeles working in corporate transactions and venture capital at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP. After practicing law, he realized his true passion was in education and founded a charter school, Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, in 2017.
At Vox Collegiate of Los Angeles, Mr. Davis created innovative learning environments that blended instruction with technology and focused on uplifting and strengthening communications as a key skill for success in career and life. And in 2023, Mr. Davis co-founded Enlighten AI, an education technology company leveraging AI to make the hard work of teaching more sustainable.
“Mr. Davis’ expertise and proven track record of accountability demonstrates clear alignment with ICEF’s strategic path forward,” said Dr. Angila Romious, Chair, ICEF Board of Directors. “The ICEF Board of Directors found Mr. Davis’ unique blend of educational technology, entrepreneurial and financial acumen, and innovative practices to problem solving, as defining characteristics that will lead to long-term advancement of student academic outcomes that parents and our community have come to know and expect from us.”
“I am honored to join ICEF Public Schools as Chief Executive Officer. For over 25 years, ICEF has been a beacon of educational excellence in Los Angeles, steadfastly committed to empowering students to achieve their fullest potential,” added Mr. Davis. “As we look to the future, my vision is to build upon ICEF’s history of service to the community, enhancing our capacity to serve more students and families, and providing the foundation for students to realize their dreams and lead self-determined lives.”
Mr. Davis succeeds Parker Hudnut who served as Chief Executive Officer for 13 years. Mr. Hudnut’s tenure of accomplishments included positioning ICEF on strong financial footing and overseeing ICEF’s new 2023 to 2026 strategic plan.
“We are incredibly grateful for Parker’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff during his tenure with us. Because of Parker’s leadership, we are a stronger and more visionary team,” continued Dr. Romious.
Mr. Davis’ appointment comes following a robust and competitive national search process with support from The Hawkins Company, a talent acquisition and management company with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The search process was led by a committee of the ICEF Board, headed by Chair Romious together with two other executive committee members, Board member Dana Henry and Board member William “Boutie” Lucas.
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Roderick Abdul is The Next ShowmanThere are countless students who excel in all aspects of an ICEF education, and VPHS freshman Roderick Abdul is certainly one of them. An outfielder on the baseball diamond and a scene stealer on the performing arts stage, Roderick has followed the View Park path since kindergarten and only time will tell is the high school can keep up with him. Read his story below.
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Read About VPHS's Roderick Abdul
6.22.24 | There are countless students who excel in all aspects of an ICEF education, and VPHS freshman Roderick Abdul is certainly one of them. An outfielder on the baseball diamond and a scene stealer on the performing arts stage, Roderick has followed the View Park path since kindergarten and only time will tell is the high school can keep up with him.
Self-described as “a little bit jumpy” and full of energy as a youngster, Roderick relished the opportunity to audition for ICEF’s version of the Disney musical “Frozen” while still at View Park Middle School. “The first audition is always nerve-wracking, but when you get done and you, like, find out who you are, it's fun. The process is fun.”
Roderick adds that his roles in the performing arts have opened up new friendships and relationships that have helped his transition to the high school. “To express myself and like see different point of views from everywhere,” he says, “and to see what I would probably want to do in the future… that’s really it.”
Now a freshman, it’s understandable for Roderick to look ahead and envision his future beyond View Park. Already, he’s formulating a plan. “I have started to think about what comes after high school,” he admits. “I do want to pursue a Performing Arts career, like going on Broadway or TV and Disney Channel and other channels like that.”
But for now, Roderick has more pressing business at hand. School elections are underway and he’s in the running… for School Mascot! “I am a very lovable and humorous guy,” his flyer proclaims, posted all along the school hallways. “I am always the life of the party. I know how to get a crowd hyped up and lit. Vote Roderick Abdul for School Mascot.”
It’s only the start of freshman year, and already this View Park student is getting the party started.
Self-described as “a little bit jumpy” and full of energy as a youngster, Roderick relished the opportunity to audition for ICEF’s version of the Disney musical “Frozen” while still at View Park Middle School. “The first audition is always nerve-wracking, but when you get done and you, like, find out who you are, it's fun. The process is fun.”
Roderick adds that his roles in the performing arts have opened up new friendships and relationships that have helped his transition to the high school. “To express myself and like see different point of views from everywhere,” he says, “and to see what I would probably want to do in the future… that’s really it.”
Now a freshman, it’s understandable for Roderick to look ahead and envision his future beyond View Park. Already, he’s formulating a plan. “I have started to think about what comes after high school,” he admits. “I do want to pursue a Performing Arts career, like going on Broadway or TV and Disney Channel and other channels like that.”
But for now, Roderick has more pressing business at hand. School elections are underway and he’s in the running… for School Mascot! “I am a very lovable and humorous guy,” his flyer proclaims, posted all along the school hallways. “I am always the life of the party. I know how to get a crowd hyped up and lit. Vote Roderick Abdul for School Mascot.”
It’s only the start of freshman year, and already this View Park student is getting the party started.
CONTACTICEF Home Office
3855 W. Slauson Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 290-6900 |
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