Rayford Dennis

Rayford Dennis grew up in Washington, D.C. and served eight years in the U.S. Navy as a hospital corpsman and medic. After receiving an honorable discharge, he struggled with civilian life after his time in the military, and was living in a homeless shelter when he enrolled at SPC in 2009.

"I was looking not only to enhance my education, but also for structure and guidance," he said. "That is exactly what I found."

In 2013, Dennis earned an Associate in Arts degree, along with an Associate in Science in Human Services with a concentration in Substance Abuse.

He transferred to the University of South Florida's Social Work program, where he graduated in summer 2016. He currently works at the Veteran's Administration, assisting homeless veterans. Dennis credits SPC faculty for keeping him moving, even when he thought he couldn't go on.

"They were there every step of the way," he said. "Without all the encouragement and sincere direction that SPC provided, my journey back to life would not have been possible. Thank you, SPC!"