Kicking Off Success: Devontay Cox's Entrepreneurial Journey at Shawnee
Devontay Cox, a junior at The Academy at Shawnee, has embarked on an inspiring journey that intertwines his passion for soccer with his entrepreneurial aspirations. From a shy freshman who hid behind a mask to a confident student ready to take on the world, Devontay's story is a testament to the power of mentorship, resilience, and real-world opportunities.
His entrepreneurial spirit first emerged when he proposed the idea for Shawnee's soccer team, demonstrating the initiative and vision that would later flourish in the school's Management and Entrepreneurship Pathway. With support from Coach Jolly and the hiring of Coach Jay Gravette, Devontay's idea became a reality. This experience laid the foundation for his future aspirations in business, particularly his dream of opening a photography studio.
The supportive environment at Shawnee has been instrumental in Devontay's growth. With dedicated teachers, mentors like Dr. Reginald McDaniel, and a range of real-world opportunities—from designing marketing materials for local businesses to attending professional summits—Shawnee has provided Devontay with the tools and experiences to nurture his entrepreneurial ambitions.
An Entrepreneurial Opportunity
Reflecting on his early days at Shawnee, Devontay admits, "I did nothing freshman year." Struggling with self-esteem and facing health challenges, he found it difficult to connect with others. However, everything began to change in his sophomore year when Devontay became involved in starting Shawnee's first-ever soccer team.
With the support of teammates like Jordan Robb and others including Sheikh Hussein and Dontae Chatman, Devontay helped establish the school's soccer team. This marked the beginning of a new chapter not only for Devontay but for many students at Shawnee. The team's formation in 2024 represented a significant milestone for the school.
"Soccer and wrestling helped me to turn around," Devontay explains, emphasizing how these activities provided him with a sense of belonging and purpose. His experience on the field became a foundation for his personal growth and entrepreneurial spirit. As a junior, Devontay continues to play an active role on the team, contributing to its development and success.
Embracing Entrepreneurship
Devontay's journey took another significant turn when he joined the Management and Entrepreneurship Pathway at Shawnee. "People don't know how good Shawnee's business program really is," he asserts. Under the mentorship of Dr. Reginald McDaniel, Devontay has gained invaluable insights into the world of business.
Dr. McDaniel brings in dozens of professionals to the classroom, challenging students to speak before them each time. His teaching philosophy emphasizes real-world applications and personal growth. "I never would have had that opportunity without Dr. McDaniel," Devontay acknowledges. This exposure has not only expanded his network but also inspired him to dream bigger.
“We’re like a family in Dr. McDaniel’s class.”
A Supportive Community
The culture within Dr. McDaniel's class fosters collaboration and support among students. Classmates express their appreciation: "We're like a family in Dr. McDaniel's class." This sense of community empowers students to pursue their dreams together. Devontay's classmates have diverse aspirations, with Jordan aiming to start a tech firm and De'ariah aspiring to become a real estate agent. Another classmate, Albert, notes, "Dr. McDaniel teaches us about life and the real world." These shared goals reflect the nurturing environment that encourages each student to explore their passions and develop the skills necessary for their future careers.
Real-World Opportunities
The Academy at Shawnee offers students unique opportunities to connect with professionals and gain practical experience. Recently, Devontay attended the Canopy Good Business Summit, where he met influential leaders like Governor Andy Beshear.
In addition to attending summits, Devontay has participated in projects that blend creativity with entrepreneurship. One notable project involved designing marketing materials for Load It!, allowing him to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world context. He has also engaged with the PNC Mentoring Program, which has provided him with valuable guidance and insights into his career aspirations.
Aspirations for the Future
Devontay's aspirations are as diverse as they are ambitious. He dreams of becoming both a photographer and a forensic scientist, humorously stating, "I wanna be Peter Parker, so I'll be a photographer. But I also like Barry Allen, so I may be a forensics scientist."
His entrepreneurial spirit shines through in his goal of opening a photography studio that manages multiple photographers. Currently saving up for a high-quality camera, Devontay is laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. As Devontay prepares for his senior year and considers universities like UofL, Bellarmine, or Spalding, he carries with him the skills and confidence gained from his experiences at Shawnee.
Conclusion
Kicking off success in both soccer and entrepreneurship, Devontay Cox is not just building a future for himself; he's inspiring others along the way. With the support of The Academy at Shawnee and mentors like Dr. McDaniel, Devontay is poised to make a lasting impact in both fields as he continues to chase his dreams.