Derrick Johnson’s path to a career in professional baseball is a powerful example of how support can ripple across generations. As a student at John Hay School of Science and Medicine in Cleveland, Derrick didn’t have to search for guidance — he already knew where to turn. Years earlier, his mother had been supported by College Now, then known as Cleveland Scholarship Programs, when she was a teenager. That experience shaped her belief in the organization, and, in turn, opened the door for Derrick. Because of her journey, he knew that College Now was the best place to find support for his own journey to a university.
College Now helped Derrick find the “hidden” opportunities that make college truly affordable. With the help of their advisors, he discovered and earned both the Frank Jackson Scholarship and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Scholarship. Derrick admitted that he would never have known these awards existed if he hadn’t walked through College Now’s doors. These scholarships allowed him to move from Cleveland to Massachusetts to attend Tufts University, where he pursued a degree in engineering.
While the money helped him get to campus, the College Now Mentoring Program gave him the support he needed to thrive once he was there. He was matched with a mentor named Roger Newberry — a perfect fit, as Roger had also attended Tufts University and studied engineering. This connection was a catalyst for Derrick’s success, as it turned a daunting academic journey into a shared experience. Their bond grew strong, and they remain friends to this day, proof that a mentor is more than just an advisor—they are a lifelong source of support and guidance.
Through Derrick’s years in undergrad, his interests grew and shifted. He took the skills he learned in college and dove into his true passion—sports. This landed Derrick a fellowship with the Los Angeles Dodgers and, more recently, stepping into a new role as a video and technology associate with the Boston Red Sox. While his career took him to different MLB stadiums, he will always be loyal to his hometown’s Cleveland Guardians.
Through the mentorship he received, Derrick hopes to pay it forward in his role on the College Now Alumni Council and guide the next generation as Robert guided him. In his role, Derrick enjoys connecting with others who were also shaped by the program. Derrick hopes his experience inspires future generations to give back with the same passion that sparked his own journey. He is proof that College Now doesn’t just help you get a degree; it helps you build the life you’ve always wanted.
College Now alumni — scholarship recipients, mentees and program participants — are invited to stay connected through the Alumni Collective. Join by completing the interest form and connecting on LinkedIn to network, share experiences and stay engaged through upcoming events and opportunities to give back.