Jarvis Christian Hosts Fonzworth Bentley Leadership Institute

Musician, actor, producer and author Derrick Watkins, better known as “Fonzworth Bentley,” is an alumnus of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. He is perhaps best known for being Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs’ former personal valet and assistant. Bentley is author of the book, Advance Your Swagger: How to Use Manners, Confidence, and Style to Get Ahead. Aside from being an authority on style, manners and Hip-Hop culture, Bentley is recognized throughout the music industry and the country as a talented artist and trend-setter.

During the 2nd Annual Jarvis Fest, Mr. Bentley hosted “Spoken Word After Dark,” a poetry jam session. The following day he addressed freshman during their First Year Experience class. In an interview with Student Government Association Public Relations Representative Briana Lee, Mr. Bentley stated, “ My goal is to get young people to think like CEO’s.” His career highlights range from motivational speaking to philanthropy to community initiatives. “I have adopted Jarvis Christian College. This will not be the last that you will see of me on campus,” Mr. Bentley said. Free copies of his book were given to all freshman as study material to use during their time with the Leadership Institute.

The purpose of the institute is to give the students of Jarvis Christian College the necessary tools and techniques that will help prepare them to embrace different social and professional situations appropriately with confidence.

About Jarvis Christian College

Jarvis Christian College is a historically Black liberal arts, baccalaureate degree-granting institution affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The mission of the college is to prepare students intellectually, through academic programs that promote excellence in teaching and learning; socially, through student-centered support programs that encourage positive and constructive communication among peers, faculty, and staff; spiritually, through programs that stimulate spiritual growth and worship; and personally, through interaction that fosters self-development and maturity. The mission further seeks to prepare students for professional and graduate studies, productive careers, and to function effectively in a global and technological society.