By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU
In the midst of the festivities in Birmingham, Alabama surrounding America's largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) football game, The Magic City Classic, Alabama State University took a moment to honor a critically ill Birmingham youth and fulfill one of his dreams.
ASU's director of Public Safety, Kelvin Kendrick, bestowed upon 12-year-old Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel the title of "honorary police officer" with the University's Department of Public Safety. The presentation was made at noon on Friday (Oct. 25) at Birmingham's CrossPlex.
Director Kendrick shared that honoring DJ was among the most meaningful duties that he has ever performed in the line of duty.
"It was truly an honor and privilege to take part in DJ’s swearing in ceremony," said Director Kendrick. "The strength and courage that he exudes is a testament of what it means to protect and serve, and I am proud to have him sworn in as an (honorary) Alabama State University police officer."
DJ is being treated for an advanced stage of brain cancer. His number one desire is to have a career as a law enforcement officer. ASU joined the city of Birmingham's Police Department in making DJ's dream a reality. The young man's ultimate goal is to be sworn in as an honorary officer by 1,000 different police departments.
"ASU's president, Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., believes in the concept of 'CommUniversity,’ (ASU’s initiative to engage and help the community), and I can't think of a better way to advance President Ross's goal than to honor DJ Daniel and make him a part of our police department at The Alabama State University," Kendrick stated.