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From Displacement to Distinction: The Journey of Jartavious Henton

Jartavious Deon Henton, a motivational speaker, scholar, and proud native of Fort Valley, Georgia, is a testament to the power of resilience, education and community. His remarkable journey—from childhood displacement to academic excellence—illustrates how unwavering determination can overcome even the greatest challenges.

As a child, Henton faced unimaginable obstacles. Due to behavioral issues stemming from emotional trauma, he was removed from his home and placed in various state-run group homes. This displacement disrupted his education and left him struggling academically. Traditional schooling was no longer an option, but Henton refused to let this setback define his future.

Driven by a desire to attend college, he dedicated himself to earning a GED—a journey that would take a decade to complete. Beginning as an elementary-level learner, he worked tirelessly to overcome intellectual delays and build a foundation for success.

In 2008, Henton’s educational journey took a pivotal turn when he joined the TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program through the Central Georgia Technical College Adult Learning Center. Under the mentorship of Mrs. Fredena Hill, an Educational Specialist, Henton began to thrive. Hill encouraged Henton to aim higher, inspiring him to see education as the key to achieving his dreams.

In summer 2018, Henton enrolled at Fort Valley State University (FVSU) as a first-generation college student. Despite his non-traditional path, he quickly distinguished himself as a leader and scholar. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Media Studies, he worked full-time, volunteered with campus organizations and maintained a high GPA.

His undergraduate years were marked by academic honors, including the HOPE Scholarship, the FVSU Foundation Scholarship, and the Dana Louise Mitchell Award of Excellence. He consistently earned Dean’s List recognition from 2019 to 2021, and in December 2021, he graduated early with honors.

Henton’s passion for community well-being led him to pursue a dual master’s in Public Health (MPH) at FVSU, with concentrations in environmental health and epidemiology. Inspired by Fort Valley’s lack of health education resources, he aims to bridge this gap and empower his community.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Oreta Samples, Henton conducted a groundbreaking internship project analyzing the effects of agricultural activities on local pond ecosystems. This research underscored his commitment to environmental health and his aspiration to work for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Henton’s commitment to service extends far beyond the classroom. A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma, Inc., Beta Delta Sigma Graduate Chapter, he embodies the fraternity’s values of brotherhood, scholarship and service. As a motivational speaker, he draws on his personal experiences to inspire others, emphasizing resilience, perseverance and the transformative power of education.

He also mentors younger students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite challenges. “I’m not afraid to tell my truth,” Henton shares, “because I want to help someone get through the journey.”

As Henton prepares to graduate with honors again, his story continues to inspire. Mrs. Hill, reflecting on her years with the ETS program, says, “Jartavious has overcome so many obstacles. Though his start was delayed and unconventional, his ability to thrive was never denied. He reminds us all that ‘it only takes a spark to get a fire going.’”

Henton’s journey from GED to dual MPH, from displacement to distinction, is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by where you start but by how far you’re willing to go. His unwavering dedication to education, service, and community makes him a role model for all who strive to overcome adversity and make a difference in the world.

Congratulations, Jartavious Henton—you are truly an inspiration!

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