Original post contributed by Mahlek Pothemont ’16
Who are you and when did you graduate? (e.g. name, age, davidson major, involved in what clubs and orgs, etc.)
Name: Darrell Scott
Age: 27
Major: Sociology; Ethnic Studies Concentration
Organizations: Black Student Coalition, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Student Government Association, S.T.R.I.D.E., MLK Day Planning Committee,
Where are you from?
Little Rock, AR
What is your current profession(s)?
Right now, I’m working on a text news service called PushBlack with Tareq Alani ’10, and helping run lean experiments with difference social justice groups through Accelerate Change. I also lead a social change incubator for high school students through an organization called LearnServe International.
What originally drew your interest to this particular position/field?
I’ve always been interested in new models for civic engagement, and stretching myself to learn about new tools. When I was leaving the philanthropy world, I knew I wanted to be in a nontraditional environment, and joining Accelerate Change’s team was the perfect fit. I’ve learned a ton about how to combine business principles and lean methodology to strengthen social movements. And, my interest in media has always been there.
I’ve always been obsessed with black media and its connection to black liberation. My childhood home was full of Ebony and Jet magazines. The TV stayed on BET. Not only did these mediums keep me updated on trends, they also taught me about civic participation.
How did the experience impact your career goals and your next steps?
We’re pushing forward with PushBlack, running multiple experiments to learn more about customer acquisition, growth strategies, and pathways to monetization. PushBlack has the unique opportunity to amplify black people’s voice in news and civic engagement. As a result, African Americans can, once again, have an outlet that informs us about important causes and provides ways to get involved. Be sure to sign up for text news service, PushBlack Now, at www.PushBlack.org/now.
Can you share on brief story about a specific project, moment, etc. that was particularly impactful?
Winning the Davidson Venture Fund with Tareq Alani ‘10: http://www.davidson.edu/news/news-stories/150305-colorworthy-wins-venture-fund-competition