For Trevon Edwards, being a first-generation college student is an ongoing journey that continues to shape how he shows up for his family and his community. A proud graduate of CMSD’s former Martin Luther King Jr. High School and Central State University, Trevon’s path into higher education began in a place he still remembers clearly; his high school’s library.
Amongst the books and media items in the library, Trevon found a team, including his College Now advisor, the school librarian and his guidance counselor, who worked together to show him that college was for him – and it was attainable. Like many first-generation students, Trevon had ambition but limited access to information.
Initially, Trevon planned to pursue mortuary science, drawn to a career he believed would provide stability and purpose. But through education and the encouragement of his trio of advisors, he began to see new possibilities, shaped by what he noticed in the educational system and what could be improved for students coming behind him.
As the oldest sibling in his family, Trevon understood early that his educational journey carried weight beyond his own success. Each step forward created new expectations for those who would follow. College Now supported him through the college application process, financial aid paperwork, and decision-making about his future, helping him move forward with clarity and confidence.
Leading Through Service
Today, Trevon serves as a center director at the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, working in Old Brooklyn to support older adults and their caregivers. He remains closely connected to College Now as a mentor, while also serving on education and political action committees with the NAACP.
Continuing the Journey
This spring, Trevon reached another milestone: acceptance into Cleveland State University’s Master’s program in Higher Education, where he will begin his studies on a full scholarship, deepening his commitment to the same systems that once supported him.
