and how they offer great scholarships to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) majors, send students to national conferences and help them find research opportunities. I knew it was the place for me.” In addition to her scholarships, Davila worked as a hairdresser to save money for college. Davila has taken advantage of all that the Scholars Academy has to offer. She is a Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) Scholar and a Peer Mentor, has attended scientific conferences nationwide and received numerous scholarships and academic awards. Davila visited UCLA in 2011 to conduct research in neurobiology studying Huntington’s Disease and she is currently doing genetics research at Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center. “I’ve really enjoyed the research I’ve been able to conduct at UCLA and MD Anderson and after graduating from UHD, I hope to get my doctorate degree in neuroscience or genetics,” she said. For Davila and others like her, UHD provided a structured, academic-focused environment, small class sizes and engaging professors. “UHD is a really wonderful school and the Scholars Academy is an amazing program,” she said. “I’m glad I came to UHD because the personal attention I received from the faculty and staff helped me stay on track to reach my academic goals.”
Lofton
Lofton Harrison left college behind nearly 30 years ago to care for his growing family. He began working with the Harris County Sheriff ’s Office in 1988, where today he is a Lieutenant with the department and an instructor at the HCSO Academy. When a colleague suggested Harrison return to college, he started part time at a community college. He later transferred to UHD and dove into the criminal justice curriculum. “I’ve learned so much,” Harrison said. “It all carries over to the real criminal justice field and makes it so much easier to do my job.”
“I can hit the books at night and book bad guys by day.”
Lt. Harrison Harris County Sherrif ’s Office
While at UHD, Harrison found his studies to be relevant and his professors to be understanding, with real-world knowledge of their subjects. Several of his instructors worked with Harrison at the Harris County Sheriff ’s Office. “I’ve broadened my horizons and really achieved something that enhances my knowledge of the world and ensures my continued professional success,” he said. “I’m going to continue taking classes because I want to keep learning and growing. Opportunities never stop and I want to be prepared.” In 2011, Harrison completed a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from UHD. He dedicated many hours and much hard work to earning his degree, but he said he couldn’t have succeeded without the support of his wife
of 24 years, Ola, and his three children, Cortney, Pierre and Jasmine. He is passionate about education and is encouraging his son to return to college and complete a degree. Summer 2012
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