Dayman Parrish

(He/Him/His)

Graduation Year – May 2024

Hometown – Richmond, VA

What are your major(s) and minor(s)? –Major: Political Science, Minors: Civic Engagement & Social Justice, Human Rights & Conflict Resolution

What are your educational and/or career goals? How do you see your participation in the Bonner program relating to them? – My educational and career goals are to pursue a career as a lawyer and eventually venture into the field of policy-making and politics. Being a part of Bonner exposes me to all types of circumstances that people deal with and allows me to engage in civic engagement and social justice opportunities. These opportunities will be a pertinent part of my future endeavors as my ultimate goal in my career is to help those who cannot help themselves.

What is your service site and service track(s)? – Commonwealth Catholic Charities: Refugee Resettlement Services; International Interest

Besides Bonner and your service site, what organizations are you involved with (on and/or off campus)? – I am Social Media Chair for Black Student Union, a Residential Assistant for Santoro Hall, and a Ferguson Fellow.

Why did you want to become a Bonner Service Scholar? – When I initially applied, I was fascinated by the approach of serving the community I will be residing in as a college student. Bonner also convinced me that it would allow me to grow my interest in social engagement and justice for the community and world. That was something I knew I wanted to be a part of.

What is your favorite experience that the Bonner Program has given you? – I am most grateful for all of the close friends who have become like family. I have gained close relationships with individuals in Bonner who I feel I can share my thoughts and feelings with without being judged.

What advice would you give a new Bonner to help them get the most out of the program? – Don’t be afraid to meet new people, experience new things, and roll with the flow of things. Serving in the community is never one size fits all, so be open and ready for anything.

What have you learned about yourself from being a Bonner? – Being in Bonner has taught me that I am a lot more capable than I give myself credit. I have experienced many different things, attended different events, and worked with influential people on my social justice work that I couldn’t have imagined possible upon coming to CNU.

What do you think your role is in creating social change? What do you see yourself doing in the future to further your role? – The service and work I do constantly inspire me to further assist the community around me and beyond to the fullest extent. I feel my role in that is creating change being a voice for the voiceless and a defense for those who cannot defend themselves. I would best do this through my career as a future lawyer and policymaker to create active change.

What are your hobbies and/or interests (outside of academics and Bonner)? –Outside of Bonner and school, I enjoy hanging out with friends, playing/creating music, collecting vinyl records, and reading

List your favorite: book, movie, musician/band, food, and quote –Book: Between the World and Me; Musician: Beyoncé; Food: Sinigang (Filipino Dish); Quote: You are loved.

Share a fun fact – I can recite movies from memory!