When Javaris first learned about the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund (DMSF), he didn’t realize how much it would shape his future. What began as a teacher’s encouragement became more than a scholarship, it helped him discover confidence, community, and a lifelong understanding of what access really means.
Now a proud Murphy Alum, Javaris reflects on his journey from Englewood to Brother Rice High School, his experience navigating new spaces, and why he believes the Murphy mission still matters today.
Q: How did you first hear about the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund?
Javaris: I remember it clearly. I wasn’t a bad student, mostly B’s, some A’s and C’s, but I could be a little disruptive sometimes. One day my teacher, Ms. Robinson, pulled me aside after class. She said, “You’ve got so much potential, but you can’t keep acting up.”
Then she told me about a scholarship she thought I’d be a great fit for. That was the first time I’d ever heard of DMSF. I applied, and that moment ended up changing my whole trajectory.
Q: Before DMSF, did you ever think about going to a private school?
Javaris: Not at all. Financially, that wasn’t an option for my family. The plan was always to go to a public school like Morgan Park, Kenwood, or Dunbar, which is where my family went.
Private school wasn’t even something I thought was possible. DMSF opened a door I didn’t know existed.
Q: How did being awarded the scholarship change your outlook?
Javaris: It made me more aware of what was possible. At the time, I was disappointed about not getting into Whitney Young. I probably started acting out because of that. But DMSF gave me another path, one that ended up being even better for me in the long run.
Q: What’s one of the biggest lessons you learned at Brother Rice?
Javaris: I learned how to be comfortable being uncomfortable. I was a Black kid from Englewood commuting an hour and a half every day to a school where most of my classmates didn’t look like me.
At first, I felt like I had to prove myself, but over time, I realized that being different wasn’t a weakness. It was my strength. That mindset has stayed with me ever since.
Q: What role did DMSF programs like LEAP and the Caddie Program play for you?
Javaris: LEAP, Language Empowers All People, was my first introduction to DMSF, and it was such a great experience. That’s actually where I met one of my best friends, Tori. We both ended up going to U of I (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) and we’re still close to this day.
The Murphy Caddie Program was another big part of my journey. You’re living and working with other Scholars, waking up early, learning a sport, and connecting with golfers. You build real friendships and a sense of responsibility. Even though I wasn’t great at golf, I learned the game and gained confidence from it.
Q: How would you describe the community you built through DMSF?
Javaris: DMSF gave me a community of people who understood me and supported me. The other Scholars became friends, the staff felt like mentors, and even years later, the connections are still there.
I don’t use social media much, but whenever I see other Murphy Alumni at events or the Golf Classic, it’s like no time has passed. That sense of belonging, it’s rare, and it’s something I’ll always be grateful for.
Q: You’ve talked a lot about “access.” What does that word mean to you now?
Javaris: DMSF was my first real understanding of what access means. It’s not just about tuition support, it’s about access to mentors, college counselors, networks, and opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise.
Neither of my parents went to college, so I didn’t have anyone to guide me through that process. DMSF filled that gap. They gave me direction, encouragement, and a roadmap to succeed.
Q: Do you still stay involved with DMSF today?
Javaris: Definitely. I try to attend Alumni events and the Annual Golf Classic. DMSF gave me so much, and now that I’m in a place to give back, whether with my time or financially,I make it a priority.
I want other Alumni to feel encouraged to do the same. We all have something to offer the next generation of Scholars.
Q: Why do you think DMSF’s mission is still so important today?
Javaris: Because so many kids still don’t have access to safe, well-resourced learning environments. I’m not here to bash public schools, but the reality is, for a lot of students, DMSF is their golden ticket.
When I got my acceptance letter, that’s exactly what it felt like, Willy Wonka’s golden ticket. It changed my life. Maybe I would’ve found success eventually, but DMSF helped me get there faster, with fewer detours.
It gave me access, direction, and hope, something that every young person deserves.
Javaris’ story is one of growth, courage, and community, a reminder that DMSF is more than a scholarship. It’s a bridge to opportunity, and a belief that potential deserves a chance to shine.
