When Dion Chavis began college in 1998, he dreamed of becoming a chef. But life took a different turn.
“I started at Johnson & Wales (University) then transferred to Norfolk State (University),” Chavis said. “But life happened. Career, kids, bills, and before I knew it, more than 25 years had passed, and I still hadn’t earned my degree.”
Now, Chavis is back in class, virtually, through North Carolina Central University’s (NCCU) online program. He's pursuing a bachelor’s degree in behavioral and social sciences, a field that aligns with his work through The Glad Dad, an organization that supports fathers and families through advocacy, education and mental health awareness.
Inspired by His Daughter
Chavis says watching his daughter thrive at a rival historically Black university sparked something in him.
“Taking her to school and seeing her grow reminded me of what I had missed,” he said. “Even though I had attended an HBCU, I never got the full experience. I wanted to finish what I started and earn a degree from a place that pours into our community.”
NCCU was a natural fit.
“I looked at several online programs, but NCCU had everything I needed: a flexible format, a curriculum that matched the work I already do and the chance to support an HBCU,” he said. “It just felt right.”
From Radio to Real Talk
Chavis has already built a successful career, including two decades in radio and years of public speaking. But he’s passionate about deepening his knowledge, especially in the areas of parenting, mental health and community outreach.
“This degree is going to help me relate to people on a deeper level,” he explained. “In my work with fathers, it’s more than just parenting. It’s about breaking generational cycles and managing the emotional load that comes with family life. I believe this education will help me be a better business owner, a better advocate and even a better parent.”
More than anything, he said it will give him confidence.
“To walk into a room and say I’m a college graduate, that means something. It’s for me. It’s personal.”
Eyes on the Finish Line
What is Chavis looking forward to the most?
“One word, finishing,” he said with a laugh. “I want that sense of accomplishment. I want to say I did it.”
Chavis is on track to earn his bachelor’s degree in December 2027, but he’s already looking ahead to graduate school and possibly a doctoral degree.
“It would be a dream. To have a nearly 30-year college journey and end it with a Ph.D.? That would be incredible.”
Message to Younger Self and Others
If he could send a message to his younger self, the one who left college before finishing?
“I’d say, ‘Anything is possible.’ I used to tell myself I was too old, or that I didn’t need it. But I’ve learned to give myself grace. Life doesn’t always follow a straight line, and that’s okay.”
For others thinking about returning to school, Chavis offers this:
“Don’t be so hard on yourself. Let go of the idea that you should’ve done it sooner. If it’s in your heart, explore it. You might just surprise yourself.”