BHM Student Spotlight: Donavan Golden

• Students
• 02/29/2024

In celebration of Black History Month, we proudly feature Donavan Golden, an exceptional student at Rock Valley College (RVC) whose journey embodies resilience, determination, and a commitment to academic excellence.

 

Donavan chose RVC after finishing high school at Jefferson High School because he understood the value of community college. RVC was more affordable than a four-year university, especially with the Pell Grant, making it easier for him to pursue higher education while staying close to home.

Donavan is studying Political Science at RVC, dreaming of transferring to the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for his bachelor's degree and then attending law school. He loves the small class sizes at RVC, which allow him to connect with classmates and professors easily, making it easier to ask for help when needed.

Throughout his journey, Donavan has received support from Dr. Luevinus Muhammad, Don Bramlett, President Spearman, and Christian Hoeger. Dr. Muhammad and Mr. Bramlett are advisors for the Black Male Completion Initiative, offering valuable guidance. President Spearman supports initiatives like BMCI, and Christian works as a TRIO tutor, helping Donavan succeed academically.

“During my day-to-day activities around campus, I have often witnessed Donavan's engaging and warm personality as he is almost always talking with many different students and oftentimes showing people around campus,” said Christian Hoeger. “I am also an assistant women's basketball coach here at the RVC and have seen Donavan at both Men's and Women's games supporting RVC Athletics.”

Donavan serves many roles in several clubs and organizations on the RVC campus and in the community including Black Male Competition Initiative President, Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President, Black Student Union, and Students for Responsible Environmental Sustainability Vice President.

He volunteers for 100 Strong Community Safe House, Secondary Success & Beyond, as a high school mentor, Youth & Government Teens Assistant Advisor, and YMCA Bro Code Assistant Advisor. Donavan is also a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

“Student Organizations are a great way to make friends with similar interests as you and to make RVC feel like a second home,” said Donavan.

Despite facing challenges like managing time and finances, Donavan remains resilient. He works multiple jobs while studying full-time, prioritizing his education and focusing on on-campus jobs to prioritize school.

Donavan advises prospective students to choose RVC over a four-year institution to avoid added debt. “RVC is the right choice to get your general studies done and get a feel on the college course load before jumping into debt.”

Looking to the future, Donavan aims to transfer to NIU for his bachelor's degree in Political Science. He also has long-term goals of earning a master's degree in Public Administration and a Doctorate in Political Science focusing on international politics.