At his Seton Hall University Graduation, 2015.

July 2014 Upcoming Senior Charlie Butler in between summer classes in Annapolis.

Charlie Butler
GRADUATED!
Seton Hall University, Class of 2015

Bachelors of Arts: Graphic Design
Master's: Strategic Communications - 2017

Update: June, 2015
The opportunity to continue his education

Charlie Butler has graduated! After four years of working around the clock to ensure the costs of his education could be covered and making every effort to continuously make opportunities work, Charlie is the first in his family to graduate college.

His hard work as manager of the Seton Hall basketball team has paid off.  The athletic department has made him an offer he can't refuse and the opportunity to continue his education. His latest update:​
​"I was presented with the option to continue my education as a graduate student. To obtain my masters degree free of charge, while also gaining important experience in college athletics, it was something I could not pass up. Over the next two years, I will spend time working in various departments within college athletics, while also continuing my work directly with the men's basketball program. The last four years as manager has been tremendous, and I hope to continue having a great experience as I progress into this next chapter."
​
Many congratulations to Charlie. This young man continues to inspire all who know him as his journey unfolds.

Charlie's thanks to his mentor

"These last four years have definitely flown by. Thank you for everything you've done for me over the years, I truly appreciate it. You don't understand how much of an impact you had on my life growing up."

Update: July, 2014
No downtime contributes to his success

Charles Butler finished his Junior year at Seton Hall University with some great news.  When he returns to South Orange, NJ for his senior year, it will not only be as a student but also the manager of the school’s Division I basketball team.  This opportunity comes with an added bonus – a full scholarship.

As he gears up for fall and his job, he is taking some classes over the summer to lessen his load in the school year.  He also changed his major to Graphic Design at the beginning of his junior year and needs to get up to speed on his credits.

His new job will require him to work up to 40 hours/week and travel with the team during October – March - maybe into April depending on the play-offs.  Charles says working with the basketball team has helped him be more focused and manage his time efficiently.

“In order to get all my work done, I try not to have any down time between classes,” he explains.

Senior year will be a time for many decisions.  Should he graduate and find a job?  Should he stay on as a graduate assistant and pursue his masters?  What field will he pursue? Business has been his major since he began but graphic design is a real interest? Or maybe he could get into coaching?

As a first-generation college student, Charlie has found that most of his decisions are ones he makes on his own as trying to explain to his family can be challenging.  He also does not like to worry his mother who recently lost her long term job.

The coaching staff at Seton Hall has been very supportive and helpful.  This summer when he goes back in July – they will coordinate some housing for him.

“My goals for the next year include putting myself in a better position by working hard in the manager’s job, building my portfolio, deciding on a masters and starting to network for my career,” he explains.

A big load for one person which is why the Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Scholarship Trust will continue to support him with mentoring and career networking.  We can’t wait to see what happens next.​