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When Lance Bennett, Ed.D. first arrived at Delaware County Community College (DCCC), he felt uncertain about his academic and career direction. However, his experience at DCCC quickly turned into a pivotal period of self-discovery.
A major turning point in Bennett’s college journey came in his Communication Arts coursework, where a professor encouraged him to take advantage of an honors opportunity that pushed him beyond traditional class assignments. Bennett conducted extensive research and authored a 25-page paper examining Barack Obama’s "A More Perfect Union" speech narrative and rationality.
This research culminated in his first conference presentation at the 2013 Eastern Communication Association Undergraduate Scholars Conference in Pittsburgh and he states “That was significant because it was the first time I really saw myself as a researcher and scholar. It changed what I thought was possible for me.”
Beyond the classroom, meaningful relationships with faculty and staff played a major role in Lance's growth. Professors recognized his potential, encouraged him to pursue ambitious goals, and helped him navigate scholarship and financial aid opportunities. For him “Those relationships taught me the importance of mentors, sponsors, and people who are willing to see something in you before you fully see it in yourself.”
Lance also gained valuable hands-on experience and financial support through a work-study position in the then, Office of First Year Experiences and was also awarded several scholarships during his time at DCCC--which provided critical financial support. Together, these experiences taught him that educational success is not just about raw ability, but about learning how to navigate institutions, build a network of mentors, seek resources, and advocate for oneself.
The opportunities at DCCC sparked Lance’s deep interest in communication, research, learning, and student development. He believes, “The combination of academic opportunities and practical experiences helped me understand that college could be a place where I developed both intellectually and professionally.”
Today Dr. Bennett is Deputy Director for Postsecondary and Workforce Success at the Communities Foundation of Texas, President and Founder of The People’s Institute for the Common Good, and Adjunct Professor for the Doctor of Leadership and Higher Education program at St. Edward’s University.
Reflecting on his path, he credits DCCC with showing him that community colleges are powerful places for deep intellectual and personal development—where true access means empowering students and communities to lead with vison, courage, and purpose. He adds that “…DCCC is still very much a part of who I am. It helped me become the kind of person who wants to make the path a little clearer for the people coming behind me.”
For students beginning their journey at DCCC today, Lance shares several key lessons from his experience:
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Do not underestimate where you start: Take your coursework seriously but look beyond the classroom to fully engage with the college experience.
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Seek out mentors and build relationships: Connect with professors, ask questions about scholarships, and explore honors opportunities.
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Get involved: Join student organizations, apply for work-study positions, and take advantage of research opportunities.
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Learn to navigate the institution: Share your career aspirations with others, ask questions, and lean on the network of support surrounding you.
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