Growing up in Flint, David McGhee, (CAS '05) overcame his share of obstacles on the way to becoming a successful mentor, teacher and community leader. His path led him to Oakland University, where he earned a degree in public administration and public policy.
After graduating, McGhee gained national acclaim for his work with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint and later founded a nonprofit consulting firm focused on youth development. His passion for education and community recently led him to provide a scholarship for an OU student from his hometown.
The David R. McGhee Tuition Award offered scholarship assistance to an undergraduate student from the Genesee County and Greater Flint area who demonstrated defined professional goals and community involvement while experiencing financial hardship. McGhee, who was honored with OU's 2012 Outstanding Young Alumni Award, says he felt a calling to help others enjoy the wealth of opportunities Oakland offers.
There's so many young people who have a desire to learn – a passion for education – but let’s face it, resources are critical in every aspect of our lives,” McGhee said. “I wanted to make sure that more kids from Flint went to Oakland and had that same experience that I had.”
Administered through OU's Center for Multicultural Initiatives, the $1,000 scholarship was awarded to an OU senior for the winter 2014 semester. CMI Director Omar Brown-El said the award made it possible for the recipient to graduate this spring.
“The student had an outstanding tuition balance and probably would not have been able to graduate on time without this award,” Brown-El said. “The award helped her reach the goal of completing her degree, and I think that’s what David McGhee intended.”
Watch this YouTube video to learn more about McGhee’s commitment to community and education. For additional information on scholarships offered at OU, visit oakland.edu/scholarships.
