Reginald '27

Major: Psychology  

Minor: Anthropology 

Orange Trivia: Aspires to become a therapist for youth and families. 

“When someone gives to Syracuse, they’re not just funding education, they’re investing in transformation.” 

 

Describe your Syracuse experience in a couple of sentences.

My Syracuse experience has been life-changing and deeply challenging in the best way. It’s a place that has welcomed me, pushed me and opened doors to knowledge, growth and creativity. Every step of my educational journey here has been filled with opportunity to learn, to lead and to become more of who I’m meant to be. 

 

How is the College of Professional Studies preparing you for your future career?

The College of Professional Studies is preparing me for my future career by providing not only the academic foundation I need, but also the flexibility and support that align with my lived experiences. What sets CPS apart is how it meets students where they are. As a post-traditional student, I’ve felt seen, supported and challenged. Through courses that push me intellectually and a community that believes in me, I’m gaining the tools to build the private practice I envision and to launch programs that empower boys and young men to lead with discipline and purpose. CPS isn’t just preparing me for a career; it’s helping me build a mission. 

 

Why did you choose to return to school as a post-traditional student?

I chose to return to school as a post-traditional student because I was given an opportunity, and I knew I’d be a fool not to answer when it came knocking. Life pulled me away from my education, but thankfully, the HEOP program kept the door open. After ten years, I knew that if I let this chance pass by, I’d be spending the rest of my life working physically demanding jobs in someone else’s kitchen. I’ve done that already, and now, I want to use my mind instead of my back. My mind is strong, and it deserves to be filled with knowledge. Coming back through the HEOP program at Syracuse University feels like hitting the lottery, and I’m determined to make the most of it. 

 

Why did you choose your degree program?

I chose my degree program in psychology because I want to become a therapist and create a space for healing, especially for boys, young men, and families who often go unheard. My life experience has shown me how important it is to have someone who listens, understands, and helps people navigate life’s challenges with dignity and strength. 

As someone who earned a GED in his thirties and returned to school through the HEOP program, I know firsthand how powerful education and mental health support can be. I want to use what I’ve learned, both in the classroom and in life, to help others rise. My degree isn’t just about a career; it’s about creating impact, building community and giving the next generation the tools to thrive. 

 

Why do you think giving to the University is important?

Giving to the University is important because it changes lives; mine is proof. Without the generosity of donors, I wouldn’t have had the chance to return to school, pursue my degree or discover my full potential. Support from programs like HEOP creates access, especially for students like me who didn’t take a traditional path but still have big dreams and powerful purpose. 

When someone gives to Syracuse, they’re not just funding education; they’re investing in transformation. They’re helping students become leaders, healers, thinkers and changemakers. Giving makes it possible for people like me to not just imagine a better future, but to build it. 

That’s why I believe giving back to the University that gave so much to me isn’t just a good idea, it’s my duty. It’s a way to show appreciation to the program and community that believed in me when I needed it most. I truly believe in being a positive force in any way I can, and giving back is one of the most meaningful ways to do that. 

 

What does it mean to you to be Orange?

To be Orange is to be like a sunrise—bold, bright and full of promise. It means rising after the dark, embracing a second chance to be whole, focused and unstoppable. I’m not just playing the game; I’m reshaping the board. To be Orange is to awaken my full potential and move forward with purpose, knowing the best of me is just beginning to shine. 

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