Elysee Kazadi’s academic journey is more than a personal milestone – it’s a statement of endurance, identity, and community service. Now holding a master’s degree in Administrative and Nonprofit Leadership, the Whitworth University graduate reflects on what it means to reach this point as a Black student and former refugee determined to give back.
“I’m proud that I was able to finish the race though many people around that look like me or have been through the same circumstances as me, have stayed long to finish the race and now that I’m having my master’s in administrative and nonprofit leadership, which is a totally different and unique degree. I am proud that I am one of a kind and I have the degree which represents the community,” Elysee says.
Education has always been more than a personal pursuit – it’s a tool for transformation. His journey has been shaped by both his roots and the communities he’s connected with in Spokane. Elysee’s commitment to service and growth is grounded in the belief that change starts with vision.
“What inspired me mostly was just the community at large, me being able to be part of the community and provide solutions to help alleviate the suffering of community was what pushed me to go ahead … I can’t say right now that I’ve fully found my identity, but … the hope that the future that we have will be even greater and better.”
Now working in higher education as a retention specialist, Elysee supports students in staying enrolled and thriving – contributing to shaping policy in real time. Looking ahead, he aspires to influence public policy on a broader scale. But his message for those coming up behind him remains simple and powerful:
Dream so big that it scares you. “You might think you don’t have resources, but I mean, you’re gonna make it.”