By William H. Kelly III
(JACKSON, Miss.) – DeMarco Pittman graduated from Jackson State University (JSU) on Friday, becoming the only Deaf student enrolled in the JSU Online masters in business administration (MBA) program. Pittman, a ninth-generation Deaf person, aims to use his degree to be a role model and advocate for Black Deaf men and youth around the country.
“I believe my story will inspire specifically Black Deaf/hard-of-hearing youth by showing representation of a Black Deaf young male in the field of business who achieved challenging goals,” said Pittman. “My story will also show that their dreams deserve the attributes to become realities.”
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, he was born deaf as the youngest of five and comes from a ninth-generation deaf family, where two of his sisters are also deaf. He is the first in his family to graduate from college, holding an associate’s degree in science, a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Georgia State University, and now an MBA from JSU.
“The decision to pursue my MBA was motivated by a desire to enhance my leadership abilities, gain a deeper understanding of business operations, and learn how to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving global economy,” he shared.
Inspired by the challenges faced as a Deaf professional, the 25-year-old proudly embodies wisdom, resilience and the determination to trailblaze a brighter future for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Especially Black men and youth who call Atlanta home. Pittman says that he’s witnessed the dearth of Black deaf professionals growing up in Atlanta, and has personally encountered challenges with securing job opportunities.
Even still, the scholar has yet to be hindered in his efforts to diversify opportunities and enhance advocacy. Additionally, the graduate praises the education he’s gained at JSU for contributing to his aspirations and career goals.
“My journey at Jackson State University has equipped me with invaluable skills and resilience…Navigating these obstacles has strengthened my determination and adaptability, showing me that setbacks don’t define my future,” Pittman shared. “What truly set Jackson State apart, especially in the online setting, was the opportunity to engage with a diverse community of students and faculty who are passionate about addressing important social issues.”
He continued: “Through the online format, I was able to connect with fellow students and engage in thought-provoking discussions about the unique challenges faced by Black Deaf men. These conversations were incredibly important to me, as they highlighted the need for more advocacy, resources, and support for this group—something I am deeply passionate about. Jackson State’s inclusive online environment made it possible to have these discussions and collaborate with others who share similar interests and experiences.”
Pittman is highly active in the community, particularly those related to advocating for the Deaf community and diversity and inclusion. Some include serving as co-chair for the 2025 Georgia Deaf Conference, treasurer for the Georgia Association for the Deaf (GAD), and being an integral member of a brand new collective composed of Deaf and American Sign Language (ASL) fluent Hearing budding entrepreneurs who are “trying to navigate the unfamiliar world of business ‘by trial and error’.”
“Through these roles, I’ve gained hands-on experience in budgeting, event planning, team leadership, and public relations, all of which I feel have been strengthened by my MBA education. The program has taught me how to think more strategically, manage resources efficiently, and lead with confidence—skills that I’ve applied directly to my work with these organizations,” said Pittman.
Pittman was accepted into the Doctorate of Business Administration program at National University. With his education, passion, and talents, he aims to transform and build a successful career in the banking and financial services industry, with an emphasis on innovating banking practices, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing financial literacy for communities.
He thanks his late grandfather Leon Pittman, his parents, siblings, and friends for their enduring support and encouragement throughout his matriculation.
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