|
|
Kevin grew up in inner city Columbus. He changed school several times, attending five different elementaries, as his family moved to meet housing needs. His father was killed when Kevin was seven. Like the other children living in this area, Kevin was labeled as "at risk" due to the obstacles he faced. But unlike many he knew that lived-up to that "at risk" label, Kevin chose to wear the label of success. Today he wears the label of Columbus City Councilmember.
Although Kevin's upbringing did not afford him many opportunities, he had the desire to attend college for as far back as he can remember. He knew it was the way he could change his environment. I KNOW I CAN helped him get there. "Without I KNOW I CAN my preparation for college would not have been complete. I would not have had the financial assistance to complete college, and I would not be a city councilmember today."
Kevin earned his bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Toledo and is working toward his graduate degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan. He received the I KNOW I CAN Last Dollar grant for all four years of his college education. His remaining expenses were covered by additional academic and athletic scholarships. Because his finances were covered, Kevin was able to focus his energy on sports and community service, including civic activities, feeding the homeless and tutoring.
Even now he gives back to the community by visiting a local prison. Once a month he works with pre-release inmates preparing them for jobs. For Kevin this work hits home. He says many of the inmates are men he grew up with. While some of his close friends went on to be successful, he says that a large number have gone to prison or have been killed. He is grateful that he had the motivation to overcome his environment.
In his young career, Boyce has made some milestones. Prior to filling the council seat, he was the first African American and the youngest man to hold the position of Chief of Staff of the House of Representatives. But it's his current position that he enjoys the most, especially "being able to see the fruits of my labor."
Seeing the changes in the community, such as new housing or sidewalks, reminds him that he is making a difference. As a member of city council, he wants to leave a lasting impact on Columbus, taking the city to another level. When people hear the name Kevin Boyce, he says he wants them to say, "He made a difference," adding that he hopes people will say that no matter what position he may hold in or outside of city government.
Kevin is still getting comfortable to the notion that his story is an "all-American" one, because for him there was never any other way his life could play out. Quitting was never an option. He is a living example that Columbus students have potential. His advice to Columbus students: "If you want to go to college you can. You just need to find the motivation and inspiration within you."
|
|
