Davin Phoenix
Recent CNU graduate Davin Phoenix credits his CNU education for inspiring and encouraging him to pursue lofty goals and to follow his passions.

Armed with a resume brimming with research and professional experience, Phoenix was offered full doctorate fellowships to six universities: Princeton, Michigan, Duke, Maryland, Georgetown and American.

His government and public affairs professors, including Dr. Quentin Kidd, helped mold his concern for social equality and political access into a career aspiration, and they recognized and promoted his abilities.

“I see the impact Dr. Kidd has on students like me, and I know I want to have that same type of illuminating effect on the students with whom I interact when I am a teacher,” Phoenix said.

“The example Dr. Kidd set makes a political science Ph.D. look all the more appealing. I intend to emulate his earnestness and candor with my own students in the future. That’s the best way to evoke potential in one’s students, much like I feel Dr. Kidd did with me.”

While at CNU, Phoenix served the community by teaching children’s church, tutoring elementary students, and helping lead an educational and outreach organization. On campus, he was active in student organizations such as the International Relations Organization, CNU NAACP and Alpha Chi National Honors Society. And he earned a 3.97 grade point average.

Phoenix is now working toward a master’s degree and doctorate in political science and public policy at the University of Michigan, one of the top programs in the United States.

“Academia will give me a platform from which I can speak with a credible voice on the issues about which I am most passionate,” Phoenix said.