Divine Marshall, a 2023 graduate of Truman High School, currently attends Howard University, a private, historically Black research institution founded in 1867.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are public and private institutions established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States. During slavery and segregation, HBCUs provided Black people with access to education that other schools denied them of.
Marshall’s favorite part of attending Howard is being surrounded by like-minded individuals who he can resonate with.
“We share similar backgrounds and cultures, and have a similar line of thinking. We know what it’s like to grow up in a Black household or a single-parent household, and the struggles that come with that,” said Marshall.
Marshall is majoring in biology and is also in the Army ROTC program. He plans to pursue a career as a dentist and specialize in anesthesiology.
“Learning how to be an officer in the Army is really rewarding,” said Marshall.
After he graduates, he will take an academic leave for dental school and then plans to become an active-duty dental anesthesiologist in the Army or National Guard.
Marshall is also part of Howard’s ambassador program, which allows him to represent the University and have a voice at different events at the White House, United Nations, and more.
“Being surrounded by Black excellence, we can elevate each other to the next level,” says Marshall.
During his time at Truman, Coach Wright, his track coach, and Ms. Ejdaharian, his calculus teacher, were very impactful and helpful. Mr. McCool, his AP Psych teacher, also inspired him to pursue a minor in psychology, and his guidance counselor Ms. Jones pushed him to excel in his classes.