Name: DaQuan Brown 

Hometown: Decatur, Georgia 

Program: Urban Education Policy 

Education: Bachelor's in Education Studies at Morehouse College

What drew you to the UEP program at Brown? 

One of my friends, Alaira, completed the program last year and spoke so highly of her experience that she encouraged me to consider it. As someone passionate about making change in education on a systemic level, I was drawn to the way she described the program’s focus on real-world application. She emphasized that the skills and experiences I would gain here could be carried into any sector of education I pursue, and that made the decision feel like a natural next step for me. 

How did your undergraduate education and previous work experiences motivate you to pursue a master’s in urban education policy? 

During my senior year at Morehouse, I worked as a literacy development specialist with The Literacy Lab, a nonprofit dedicated to improving literacy in underserved communities. While pre-K wasn’t the grade level I initially envisioned teaching, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the growth I saw in my students. By the end of the year, my class was confidently writing their names, identifying letters and numbers, understanding basic math concepts, and even recognizing and expressing emotions. A few of my students were so advanced that they began attending Kindergarten lessons during nap time. That experience was humbling and taught me both patience and respect for every stage of learning. I also worked with the Georgia Statewide Afterschool Network (GSAN), a public-private collaborative focused on expanding access to quality afterschool and summer programming. There, I contributed to their quality assessment program by evaluating day-to-day operations and “learn through play” curricula. I loved the challenge of brainstorming and implementing ways to make programs more effective. It was during that time that I realized, “I could do this for a living.” Both of these experiences solidified my desire to pursue policy work that strengthens educational opportunities for all children. 

How do you like to spend your free time? 

In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, reading, writing poetry, catching up with friends and family back home, and exploring Providence. Sometimes that means walking through a park, finding a random comic book store, or simply discovering something new in the city. I also like winding down with anime or just doing something spontaneous. 

Who is your #1 inspiration in life? 

My number one inspiration is Dr. Artesius Miller, my professor at Morehouse and the Founder & CEO of the Utopian Academy for the Arts Charter School Network. Dr. Miller is a visionary leader who launched the first charter school authorized by the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia. Taking his class, School Design and Leadership, my sophomore year was the moment I realized the transformative power of education to reshape entire communities. The very next year, I changed my major to education. 

What is something you enjoy about living in Providence? 

I enjoy the slower pace of life in Providence. There are plenty of things to do, but the city also offers the space to slow down—whether that’s taking long walks by the water, reading in the park, or simply observing and interacting with the community. It’s a balance I’ve come to appreciate. 

Who has made you the person you are today? 

Without question, my mother, Myisha Brown. She instilled in me the belief that no dream is unreachable. That lesson has shaped not only how I pursue my own goals, but also how I encourage others—friends, family, and students—to chase theirs. I carry that mindset into my work in education because I truly believe no task is too small and no dream is out of reach. 

How do you center yourself and care for your mental health while balancing graduate school and other responsibilities? 

I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries. On most Fridays and Saturdays, I make a conscious decision not to do any work. Instead, I use that time to recharge—whether that means taking a walk in the park, watching TV at home, or exploring something new in Providence. By Sunday evening, I ease back into my responsibilities and set myself up for the week ahead. Working out is also a big part of how I manage stress, and I take full advantage of the mental health services Brown provides. 

What has been a highlight of the program? 

For me, being part of the UEP program feels like a dream come true. If you care about equity in education, if you want real-world experience, and if you’re looking for a community of like-minded people who are passionate about shaping the future of education, this is the place to be. Every day, my belief in what I’m capable of grows stronger—thanks to my peers, the incredible faculty, and the culture that defines Brown University.