Kent State Alumnus Takes Center Stage in Martha's Vineyard Reality Show: A Story of Activism and Identity
Kent State University alumnus Preston Mitchum is making waves as part of a new reality show set on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. The show, which follows a group of young Black professionals and entrepreneurs vacationing on the island, offers Mitchum an expanded platform for his advocacy work.
From Kent State to Martha's Vineyard: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Mitchum's journey began at Kent State University, where he graduated with honors in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in political science, a concentration in public policy, and a minor in Pan-African Studies. He chose Kent State because the scholarship money offered made attending affordable. During his four years at Kent State, Mitchum was deeply involved in many student organizations, including serving as president of the Kent State Pre-Law Society, vice president of the All-Campus Programming Board, president of the Kent State Chapter of the NAACP, and serving two terms on what was then the Undergraduate Student Senate. His time at Kent State was formative, shaping his worldview and understanding of politics and political systems. "Kent State shaped so much of how I think now," he said. He credits the university and the Kupita program with helping him form and expand his worldview. Sarah Malcolm, executive director of Kent State’s Office of Global Education, remembers Preston fondly for his academic achievements and has followed his interesting and successful career path as an attorney and activist.
Mitchum's activism was ignited during his time at Kent State. He was heavily involved in civil rights issues on campus, protesting instances of anti-Black racism. "I used to protest so much," he said.
After graduating from Kent State, Mitchum pursued law school and furthered his education at American University’s Washington College of Law, specializing in gender and law. He has since built his career in Washington, D.C.
Notably, Mitchum said it was only after he graduated from Kent State that he came out as gay. This personal journey adds another layer to his activism and his role on the reality show.
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The Allure of Martha's Vineyard: History, Heritage, and Reality TV
The reality show, set on Martha's Vineyard, provides a unique backdrop steeped in African American history and culture.
Mitchum was vacationing at the Vineyard attending a party with a group of friends when one of them, model Jordan Emanuel, posted a photo of their group on Instagram. This chance encounter led to his involvement in the show. He felt comfortable with the concept because he was already friends with half of the cast, and the others were friends of friends.
Mitchum recognizes the significance of Martha's Vineyard as a location, highlighting its historical importance to the Black community and its landmark decisions for LGBTQ+ rights in Massachusetts. "Massachusetts, in and of itself with a lot of their landmark decisions for LGBTQ rights, it was the first state in the country where Black people could buy property; and Martha’s Vineyard, there are African American heritage trails and museums."
Balancing Activism and Reality TV: A Platform for Change
As an attorney and activist, Mitchum initially had concerns about appearing on a reality show, fearing it could undermine his credibility. However, he believes that he can be himself on the show and that the expanded platform will ultimately benefit his advocacy work.
Despite the potential challenges, Mitchum's experience on the show has been eye-opening. "I think the most surprising thing, honestly, was that there are literally cameras everywhere - probably except for the closets and the bathrooms - there's cameras every which way you turn including microphones in the headboards of the beds in the bedrooms."
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Mitchum describes himself as the "voice of reason" within his friend group, a role he likely carries into the show. "I tend to be the voice of reason most days in my friend groups,” he said. “You rarely found me in argumentative moments."
Additional Initiatives at Kent State University
While Mitchum shines on Martha's Vineyard, Kent State University continues to foster growth and development through various initiatives:
MPower Summit
The MPower Summit, scheduled for October 14, aims to unite students, faculty, and staff from colleges, high schools, and community organizations to bolster men of color initiatives.
Narcan Education
The Kent State University Kent Campus is offering free Narcan education on August 31, in collaboration with the Kent Health Department. This initiative addresses the critical issue of opioid overdose and equips individuals with life-saving knowledge.
Addressing Mental Health
Recent data from the Ohio Department of Health indicates a concerning trend of increasing suicide deaths. Kent State University recognizes the importance of mental health support and is working to provide educational opportunities for mental health practitioners.
Read also: Next Steps at Kent State
Collaboration with University of Central Florida
Kent State University is closely coordinating with the University of Central Florida (UCF) for their season-opening football game in Orlando, Florida.
Research in Archaeology
A new study led by Archaeologist Michelle Bebber, Ph.D., from Kent State University’s Department of Anthropology, has shed light on the atlatl, an ancient tool.
Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and Community Colleges
The Regional & Community Outreach Department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston is dedicated to promoting economic growth in low- and moderate-income (LMI) communities. They collaborate with community colleges to build the financial capabilities of LMI residents.
Several individuals are involved in this effort:
- Sol Carbonell: Has experience working across sectors and has trained hundreds of non-profit, bank, and government representatives on issues related to credit and banking.
- Prabal Chakrabarti: Plays a key leadership role in a prize competition to revitalize smaller cities called the Working Cities Challenge.
- Sarah Savage: Focuses on building the capacity of practitioners and institutions working to strengthen financial capabilities of low- to moderate-income residents.
- Richard Walker: Is leading an innovative project for the Bank called the Working Cities Challenge.
Higher Education Leaders
Several individuals are making significant contributions to higher education:
- Doris B. Arrington: Has served as Dean of Student Services at Capital Community College since 1990 and is a nationally known presenter on higher education access, student success, and assessment.
- Joi Lin Blake: Currently serves as the Vice President of Student Services at Skyline College and has experience developing and implementing innovative programs for diverse student populations.
- Monnica Chan: Is the Director of Policy and Research at the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE).
Alumni Achievements
Hobart and William Smith alums have made significant contributions in various fields, including literature, history, and activism.
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