In this article, we introduce Senior Program and Operations Manager, College Park native, first-generation HBCU graduate, David Varnado; who discusses his homecoming as the newest member of the Partnership’s staff.
They Say You Can’t Go Home Again
Growing up in College Park, I never imagined my career would lead me back to where it all began. While the city has changed dramatically since I was a student at Paint Branch Elementary, or I was playing football for College Park Boys & Girls Club at Duvall Field, a piece of my heart never left.
This is the place where my mother had the first set of keys that belonged to us, where I had my first bedroom set, where I made my first friends. This is where my third-grade teacher, Ms. Keane, challenged me to be great. I remember walking to the chapel at the University of Maryland by myself to attend her wedding. Many of her students were there because we adored her — she was the best.
I think back on Ms. Austin at Greenbelt Middle School. The teacher who, when I was still trying to figure things out, wiped my mom’s tears and told her that I was going to be alright. Though it took some time for the seeds they planted to grow, I never forgot the lessons they taught me. College Park has shaped so much of who I am, and I’m honored to return and start a new chapter in a familiar place.
It is my hope to pour back into community the way Ms. Keane and Ms. Austin did for me. Upon graduation, as a first-generation HBCU graduate of Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, I returned to my local Boys and Girls Club as a coach and Board Member. I also spent two years as a Special Olympics coach, which I consider one of the greatest experiences of my life. Professionally, I’ve honed my skills in multiple industries from Construction to Property Management to Special Education and I found my niche developing youth programs. I’ve managed multiple out-of-school programs and summer camps, gaining invaluable experience in program management, strategic partnerships, and community engagement. Above all, it is my ambition to pay it forward. When the opportunity to come home and join the Partnership arose, I knew it was meant to be.
Above all, it is my ambition to pay it forward. When the opportunity to come home and join the Partnership arose, I knew it was meant to be.
– David Varnado
In my new role one of my major projects is leading the Live+Work Program. The program’s goal is to encourage people working in College Park to live here too. It’s an opportunity for me to connect people to the dream of homeownership; and, hopefully, the feeling of owning a set of keys that was theirs, just like my mother felt. College Park is an amazing place to live, an amazing place to raise a family. I’m testament to that and I’m committed to making a positive impact. This city is in my DNA — I can’t wait to connect with all of you soon.
–David Varnado
For more information about the Partnership’s Live+Work Program, visit: www.collegeparkpartnership.org/liveworkprogram. You can send welcome (home) email to David Varnado, Senior Program and Operations Coordinator at [email protected].