About us

Welcome to Artest University, Inc., an institution dedicated to empowering youth in underprivileged communities through education, sports, and mental health awareness. Founded in September 2007 by NBA star Metta World Peace, originally as Xcel University, we became The Artest Foundation in May 2019 to better align with our mission and vision.

Our Mission

At Artest University, our mission is to foster the development of young individuals into successful, productive members of society by focusing on:

  • Sports Activities: Encouraging teamwork and physical fitness.
  • Education: Providing scholastic and financial literacy programs.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Offering counseling and support for well-being.
  • Parental Partnership: Working alongside parents to support community growth.

 

We aim to break the cycle of disadvantage by providing the necessary guidance and resources for youth to reach their full potential.

Our Story

Our mission is fueled by the inspirational journey of our Co-Founder Metta World Peace. Growing up in the Queensbridge projects of New York, Metta faced numerous challenges, including family separation and mental health issues. Despite these obstacles, he achieved a successful NBA career, earned a collegiate degree, owns the Artest Media Group, and co-founded this nonprofit organization. His story is a testament to overcoming adversity and giving back to the community.

Our Impact

Artest University has a proven track record of investing in historically disadvantaged communities across America. Our initiatives include:

  • Scholarships: Supporting students in private secondary and post-secondary education.
  • Community Empowerment: Financially backing organizations that invigorate local communities.
  • Workshops: Hosting sessions on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and mental wellness.

 

Our Future

While our mission remains steadfast, Artest University is expanding its focus by developing a higher education institution offering:

  • Advanced Degrees and Certifications: Delivered in-person and online through a proprietary learning platform.
  • Athletic Programs: Featuring a basketball team for students pursuing degrees crafted by experts in consultation with Metta World Peace.

Our Vision

Rooted in the aspirations of the Artest Management Group Inc, Artest University aims to offer transformative education that prepares young people to become well-equipped adults, parents, and partners. Our vision focuses on empowering graduates to lead in various industries, supported by the AMG portfolio, including healthcare, childcare, wellness, real estate, finance, sports, and entrepreneurship. We are committed to promoting the importance of parenting and partnership within communities.

We invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Your support helps us provide the tools necessary for the youth to reach their full potential and beyond. Thank you for being a part of Artest University.

Artest University’s Co-Founder, Metta World Peace, has an incredible, inspiring story of overcoming many significant obstacles from growing up in one of NY’s most known projects in Queensbridge, to the split of his parents, as well as Mental Health issues. Metta World Peace has beat the odds obtaining a successful NBA career, a collegiate degree, owning a media company Artest Media Group, and Co-Founding a non profit organization. Artest University is carrying out what is most near and dear to Metta World Peace by educating the youth in the community and providing them with the tools necessary to reach their full potential and beyond.

Welcome to Artest University. We appreciate you and your support.