Club Alumni

Shawn

Shawn is a 757 native and former member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia. After graduating from Norfolk Academy in 2014, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania while also focusing on his pre-med studies. There he was able to participate in many extracurricular programs including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Varsity Basketball, and various pre-health organizations. Currently, Shawn is a medical student at Columbia University in New York looking to become an Orthopedic Surgeon. Having always viewed education as his vehicle to success, he hopes to use his platform to inspire others to dream big and be relentless in their pursuits.

All in all, he says the Boys and Girls Club was truly a crucial part of his childhood. “Not only did it help keep me stimulated and focused throughout many summers, but it also gave me endless opportunities to make lifelong friends.” He believes the positive impact that the staff had on him was a true spark for his passion of mentoring and working with the next generation. "Shoutout to the Club for everything y’all do and may y’all continue to positively impact kids' lives for generations to come."

Ellis

Ellis Dawson is a multi-hyphenate artist born and raised in the 757. He spent many summers at the TowneBank - Rosemont Club!

After leaving Virginia, Ellis attended Baldwin Wallace University. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and moved to New York. He acquired an agent and was cast in the broadway national tour of Aladdin as the Genie understudy. Ellis went on to perform the Genie over 100 times!

Ellis is also a published fashion photographer. His work has been featured in Rhianna’s fashion line, published internationally, and cherished in a few photography books. An award-winning writer and director of his hit web series “For The Boys!” he partnered with Tony-nominated legendary actor,

Colman Domingo, to bring this project to TV screens across America.

Briana

Briana, an alumna of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia, graduated from Landstown High School in 2015. She earned an Associates in Arts Degree from Pitt Community College in 2017, a Bachelor of Science Degree from East Carolina University in 2019 and is currently earning her Master's Degree in Sports Administration at Arkansas State University. Amidst being in various organizations and clubs such as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and The National Council of Negro Women, she was able to maintain a 3.9 GPA .

Briana has worked with the NFL Carolina Panthers, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and attended the 2021 NFL Draft in Cleveland, Ohio.

"The Rosemont Boys and Girls Club has shaped me into the successful woman I am today. This is where I found my passion to leave an impact in my community and serve others. "