Greetings to all of my family and friends, my name is Tamarus Darby, Jr., a rising Junior Political Science and International Affairs double major from the great state of Michigan. I'm reaching out to you all because my academic journey has hit a roadblock. Unfortunately, this past fall, I lost one of my major sources of funding due to program cuts and university funding reallocations. This has created an urgent need for support to ensure that I can continue my studies without interruption.

My situation is further complicated by financial changes impacting higher education through the Department of Education and the Trump Administration. This past spring, the University found out that $64 million will be taken out of its appropriation. Along with this, tuition costs continue to rise, making it difficult for students like myself to afford their education. However, despite these obstacles, my commitment to my education, campus, and community remains strong. On campus, I’m not just a student; I am an active and influential member of the Howard University community. I dedicate my time and energy to several organizations and initiatives, demonstrating leadership and a desire to make a meaningful difference. Outside of school, I currently work at Chick-fil-A, in an effort to make sure that I have some financial stability while being away from home.

For the past seven years, I have been an active participant in the Detroit Police Department Explorers Program, gaining experience and contributing to public safety initiatives. I’m involved with the Ann Arbor NAACP's Political Action Committee as well as the Michigan State Democratic Party, where I advocate for social justice and civic engagement. In addition to my community involvement, I have been a life-long member of the Spiritual Israel Church and its Army, where I have served diligently on multiple auxiliaries with a calling into ministry at the age of 12. This upcoming 2025 General Assembly, I am proud to say that I will be getting ordained as both a Reverend and a Deacon.

My story is one filled with resilience, dedication, and community spirit. Your contribution, no matter the size, will help me cover tuition, housing, and living expenses, allowing me to continue my education at Howard University and pursue my dreams of making a positive impact on the world. If you are unable to donate, please share this with anyone you can. Every bit of support brings me one step closer to completing my degree and continuing to work in both my university and home communities.

Thank you for your generosity, continued support, and belief in my future.

Campus involvement:

Howard University Step Team (Treasurer)

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America (Campus Relations Officer)

Howard University Alternative Spring Break (Participant)

Bloom Academy & Build Institute (Inaugural Chairman)

Ready Set Success (Ambassador)

Council of Independent Organizations (2nd Vice President)

MY’ EJA HU (Director of External Affairs)

Beyond The Teal (Co-Director of Outreach and Advocacy)