My name is Quinntez, and I’m proud to share that I’ve just graduated with my Bachelor’s in Social Work—after years of overcoming addiction, homelessness, and generational barriers to education. Now, I’ve been accepted into the Master’s in Public Administration and Policy program at American University, and I need your help to take the next step.

I am a first-generation college graduate, a native Washingtonian, and a Black man in long-term recovery with five years of sobriety. My lived experience—combined with my academic journey—has shaped a powerful purpose: to transform systems that have long failed vulnerable communities.

At the University of the District of Columbia, I served as President of the Social Work Student Association, creating healing spaces and elevating student voices. I also serve as a Steering Chair Executive Member of the Association of Black Social Workers (ABSW), Metro DC Chapter, where I work alongside leaders committed to justice, advocacy, and equity in service delivery.

In my role as a street outreach specialist and community navigator, I’ve helped unhoused neighbors navigate broken systems, built coalitions to improve housing access, and advocated for policy reform across DC. I’m passionate about transforming the way our public institutions respond to poverty, addiction, and displacement—and graduate school will give me the policy tools to do just that.

In addition to my academic and professional goals, I’m also working toward my private pilot’s license. For me, becoming a pilot isn’t just about breaking personal barriers—it’s about expanding what’s possible for those of us who come from humble beginnings. I want to be a visible reminder that with support and determination, we can rise.

Tuition and living costs for graduate school are significant, and I’m asking for support so that finances don’t stand in the way of my commitment to service and leadership.

If you believe in second chances, in the power of lived experience, and in uplifting leaders who fight for their communities, please consider supporting my journey. Every contribution helps me get closer to creating policies and pathways that prioritize people—not bureaucracy.

Thank you for investing in my future—because when you do, you’re investing in justice, equity, and possibility.

With gratitude,

Quinntez Washington

Cost Breakdown for Graduate School & Career Development

Your support will directly help cover the following costs for my two-year Master’s in Public Administration & Policy program at American University, as well as my continued training toward becoming a licensed private pilot:

Expense

Estimated Cost

Tuition & Fees (2 years)

$50,000

Housing & Living Expenses

$24,000

Books & Academic Supplies

$2,000

Public Transit & Commuting Costs

$1,500

Health Insurance & Emergency Costs

$1,500

Pilot Training (Ground School & Flight Hours)

$5,000

Professional Development (Conferences, Licensing, Tech)

$2,000

Total Goal

$86,000

Every donation, no matter the size moves me closer to my dream of becoming a policy leader, change agent, and licensed pilot. Thank you for believing in my mission and investing in my future.