Community College of Philadelphia is pleased to announce that Dontae Bacon is a recipient of both the Joseph and Marie Field Opportunity and First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia Scholarships.

Dontae’s academic goals are to graduate from Community College of Philadelphia and transfer to his dream school, University of Maryland. Once he graduates from University of Maryland, he would like to become a middle school Physical Education teacher and coach sports teams at the school. 

Dontae is also a student athlete who volunteers in Grady’s Garden and the Snack Rack on campus.  

Q: If you are new to the College: Why are you excited to join Community College of Philadelphia? 

A: I know the powerful impact community colleges can have on students from diverse backgrounds, empowering them to reach their full potential and connecting them with meaningful career paths. Community colleges have a special way of fostering growth and providing opportunities that go beyond academics, and I’m happy to be part of that mission here at CCP. 

Q: How do you look forward to impacting our students with your academic/field training? 

A: I want my students to really get excited about tourism and hospitality. I want to bring the real world – through experiential learning – into the classroom, helping students to understand the important factors that drive success in these fields.  I am excited to contribute to their development, not only as professionals but as well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in a dynamic, service-oriented industry. 

Q: Tell us a little about your previous work experience, including titles, and what degrees you have. 

A: I have more than 15 years of teaching experience at Montego Bay Community College, where I taught Tourism and Hospitality Management as well as Culinary Arts. I also worked as an adjunct at Northern Caribbean University, where I taught Hotel Operations Management. Additionally, I worked at Wilmington Job Corps as a Culinary Arts instructor. I hold a master’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management, and I am currently completing a doctorate in Business Administration. 

Q: Why did you choose to become an educator? 

A: I wanted to be in hospitality somehow, but I also wanted job security, and I thought that teaching would give me that opportunity. My journey started with a B.Ed. in Food Service Production and Management. During my teaching practice, I was placed in training centers, where I worked with students from diverse backgrounds and needs. This experience allowed me to connect with students on a deeper level, and I realized I could make a real difference. 

Q: What experience or individual influenced your career direction? 

A: My career direction was influenced by a personal drive to rise above my circumstances and create a better future for myself and my family and this kept me steadfast in pursuing my goals. I also had incredible professors and mentors whose support was truly invaluable — they showed me not only the many opportunities in the hospitality industry, but also the impact an educator can have in shaping students' lives. 

Q: Tell us something about yourself you would like the College community to know – hobbies, what you like to do for fun, a fun fact about yourself. 

A: Outside of teaching, I am a strong advocate for community service and giving back, as I believe in creating a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom. I love to travel, and I have an ever-growing bucket list of destinations I’m excited to explore.