Dacian Gavin set three goals for himself when he enrolled at Everest Institute: come to school on time, every day, complete every class and homework assignment, and above all else, always act professionally toward staff and fellow students. When challenging coursework and financial struggles threatened to derail his hopes of a better life, Gavin not only persevered, but inspired both his teachers and fellow students with his “can do” attitude and determination.
In recognition of his efforts and commitment, Gavin, a graduate of Everest Institute-Detroit, won the school’s 2013 Dream Award. The award recognizes one graduate who has completed a post-secondary education while overcoming extraordinary challenges.
A native of Clearwater, Fla., Gavin moved to Detroit to start a new life with his mother and brother after his rocky relationship with his father deteriorated. With a health-related degree in tow, Gavin assumed finding employment in his new home would be relatively easy. Unfortunately, he was met with rejection after rejection – as bills and expenses began piling up.
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Gavin realized he would need to change course quickly. His brother was working as a Pharmacy Technician, and Gavin was impressed with the success he was having and how much this fast-growing career had improved his life. With that in mind, Gavin enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician program at Everest Institute-Detroit with the hope of gaining new skills that would lead to better employment opportunities.
Without a reliable income, Gavin struggled to make ends meet, and often considered dropping out. His self-doubt was compounded when coursework became more and more difficult. Instead of giving up, Gavin told himself that these current challenges were small when compared to the reward of a better life.
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His teachers and fellow students noticed his positive attitude and nominated Gavin for the student mentor program. With the support of Everest and his peers, Gavin not only persisted, but excelled, in his studies, eventually becoming the class salutatorian.
Upon graduation, Gavin received two offers of employment, and currently works as a Certified Pharmacy Technician for CVS Pharmacy.
“Gavin is truly deserving of this award and is an inspiration to all of his instructors, classmates and Everest staff,” said Marchelle Weaver, president of Everest Institute-Detroit. “Though he faced tremendous obstacles, we are very proud of his accomplishments. We congratulate him on winning this award and wish him continued success.”
As a Dream Award winner, Gavin will receive a $2,500 Everest scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.
