Exemplary Student

Cal State Fullerton Sophomore Sets Example For Peers

February 10, 2009

By Mimi Ko Cruz

Dorado Quick always wanted a hero. Now, he is one.

The 19-year-old Cal State Fullerton sophomore sets the example with his deeds and encourages his peers to follow suit. He serves as president of the student group Alliance for the Preservation of African Consciousness, an organization that offers services such as tutoring and mentoring to African American male students.

Under his presidency, membership has gone from seven last year to 30 today, and their service efforts also have multiplied. The group is organizing several events this month commemorating Black History Month. He recently answered some questions for Inside.

What is APAC’s mission?

To provide unity among African-American males, promote awareness of current societal issues and create a positive image of African-American men. The Alliance also aims to ensure that all members are in good academic standing and on track to graduate.

Members receive tutoring, mentoring and networking opportunities. They can learn time-management techniques and public speaking skills, and gain volunteer experience by mentoring high school students and taking part in activities that improve and redefine the image of African-American men.

Why is that important to you?

Media perceives black men in a negative light, and I want to help change that image.

It is so important to have someone to look up to and to be someone who can be looked up to. I come from a broken home. My mom left when I was 10. I grew up in Inglewood and I've been through hard times. I've seen a lot of bad things. I've seen friends and family go the wrong routes — to drugs, gangs, serious downfalls.

I never had anyone to emulate, but something inside me made me push myself to be better. I've always been mature for my age and I have very strong willpower. I always knew I had to get to college and here I am. I didn't have any role models as a child so I realized that I would have to create one for myself and others.

Do you have a role model now?

Yes. His name is John Reid (Cal State Fullerton’s coordinator of the Student Diversity Program). He’s mentored me and taught me a lot about being a good man, a role model. He’s like a dad who helps me, supports me and encourages me. Because of his mentoring, I went from a 2.18 grade-point average to a 3.27.

How are you celebrating Black History Month?

APAC hosted a discussion Feb. 5. I spoke about promoting and building a positive image of black men. Then, on Feb. 26, APAC is co-sponsoring with the Brothers’ Movement from Cal Poly Pomona, Cal State Fullerton’s annual “Why I Love Black Women” honorary celebration and ceremony. This ceremony is designed to pay homage to the legacy of African-American women, past and present, who have contributed to the growth and success of society, and young women who portray great character, success and overall leadership on our campus. We hope to show how much we love them and to express how valuable they are to our community.

What are your goals for the future?

I hope to inspire people to do what I’m doing and do it even better and bigger. Help people more. We live in a "me" society. Let’s talk about "we." I’m planning on a career in marketing and always giving back to my community.

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