Building Community, Empowering People

In just three short years, John Dee Bright College has redefined the traditional academic path by offering two-year associate’s degrees in integrated arts, sciences, and humanities as well as in business, organization, and professional studies. The college’s unique approach revolves around learning cohorts which builds a supportive community where non-traditional students navigate their academic journey alongside a dedicated group of peers.

This groundbreaking college is named in honor of Drake University’s 1952 graduate, Johnny Bright, whose legacy as an elite athlete and dedicated educator continues to inspire our students today.

We invite you to witness the power of accessible, highquality education through the stories of five remarkable students who showcase the spirit of this new institution.

IT Extraordinaire

DeShana Taylor was in the inaugural class at Bright College, drawn to the business organizational and professional studies track. The practicality of Drake’s program, with a predictable schedule and costeffective tuition, made it the right choice for DeShana, a grandmother with a full-time job.

I wasn’t a high school graduate,” she said. “I had my daughter at 15, finished 10th grade, and got my GED. I enrolled at Bright College for my development and a sense of accomplishment. I knew it would also make me more viable in the workplace.

After graduating from Bright College, DeShana planned to enter Drake’s law school but was instead drawn into the field of information technology. She is now a senior with a Digital Communications major. Her degree will not just be for herself but will honor her grandmother, Novella Jean Cromer, who helped raise DeShana and instilled the importance of academic achievement.

Beyond her education and IT career, DeShana is involved in the Pyramid Theatre Company, Iowa’s only Black theater. Starting as an actor, she now serves on the board of directors. For DeShana, Pyramid Theatre has been a lifeline, providing a renewed perspective on life and a sense of family beyond blood ties.

“My path hasn’t been the most direct, but it’s gotten me here, which is exactly where I need to be,” DeShana said.

Aspiring Journalist

Kat Rucker, an Associate of the Arts student with a passion for writing and dreams of entering journalism, appreciates the diverse cohort environment at Bright College, where individuals of all ages and backgrounds work together and support one another.

“It’s just so fun,” she said. “Getting to know everybody and working closely with the professors. I want to continue at Drake and get my four-year degree. My goal is to become a journalist to tell the stories that don’t get told.”

Future Physician's Assistant

Irvin Ceron-polco brings a unique blend of his passion for healthcare, photography, and cultural expression to his academic journey. Currently pursuing a degree in Healthcare Administration, Irvin began his Bright College experience in the fall of 2023, with plans to graduate in May 2025.

Irvin’s connection to healthcare is deeply personal. Diagnosed with kidney failure at the age of four, he has experienced hospitals and scary health situations. He plans to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) this summer and pursue a career as a physician’s assistant.

“With Bright College, I have a flexible schedule where I am studying and earning my degree, but still have time to work, volunteer, and do other things I’m interested in,” he said.

Outside of classwork, Irvin is a busy young man. Working as a waiter and photographer, his artistic side finds expression in his involvement with “Los Zapateros,” a Latino dance group where he also lends his choreography skills.

Social Services Hero

Isaaca Carter envisions creating an outreach resource center, bringing together existing organizations, and serving as an extension of their outreach services. She dreams of a collaborative space where resources are consolidated, ensuring that individuals seeking assistance can easily find the support they need.

“I’m really big on connections and getting people what they need,” she said. “When people get the wrong tools or don’t realize tools exist to help them, it prolongs their journey. I want to share my knowledge of these systems and help other women with their dreams.”

Bright College provided the opportunity to earn a degree to enhance Isaaca’s advocacy and open more doors for her work.

Enrolled in the business track at Bright, she works several jobs, including at Iowa Family Services, where she provides respite for families in need and teaches essential life skills to children, tailoring her approach to meet individual needs. She is also a working mother after adopting her niece Liliana, who has been invited to join class whenever public schools are closed.

Bright is a really good program to have a normal life,” she said. “Instead of choosing between raising my daughter and going to college at Bright, I can do both.

Once she graduates in 2025, Isaaca wants to transfer her credits to a Historically Black University (HBU) and live closer to her family in the South.