A Lifelong Commitment to Justice: Dr. Dorsey Reese’s Journey
By When Dr. Dorsey Reese walked across the stage at Texas Southern University to receive his Doctorate in Administration of Justice, it marked the culmination of a journey fueled by history, passion, and an unwavering belief in the power of knowledge.
For Dr. Reese, the decision to pursue a Ph.D. wasn’t just an academic goal, it was a personal mission inspired by the polarized social and political climate of the United States in recent years.
“I was inspired to pursue my Ph.D. by the direction the country appeared to be headed under the 45th President, especially around social justice issues and voting rights,” he shared. “The right to vote is something very dear to me.”
A Childhood Shaped by the Civil Rights Movement
Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, during the 1960s civil rights era, Dr. Reese witnessed history firsthand. He saw the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Ralph David Abernathy, Rev. Andrew Young, and Hosea Williams through the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. These experiences shaped his lifelong passion for justice and civic engagement.
One memory remains especially vivid: integrating public schools in Atlanta. As a ninth grader, he endured verbal and physical hostility from fellow students.
“I remember walking down the hall and hearing racial slurs, even feeling spit hit the back of my neck,” Dr. Reese recalled. “Those experiences left a deep impression on me.”
The Texas Southern Experience
By the time he decided to enroll at Texas Southern University, Dr. Reese had been enjoying retirement for seven years. He was initially hesitant, but his daughter encouraged him, and the thought of setting an example, especially for his grandson, motivated him.
“I didn’t want to start something like this Ph.D. program and not finish it. My grandson would be watching me, and I had to finish.”
Dr. Reese describes his time at Texas Southern as both challenging and rewarding. Faculty members like Dr. David Baker and Dr. Howard Henderson emphasized the responsibility Ph.D. graduates have to generate knowledge and serve the public. Students were encouraged to back every perspective with solid research, reinforcing the value of fact-based dialogue in today’s polarized climate.
“Texas Southern reinforced for me the need for institutions to inform the public with facts. In highly politicized times, misinformation can keep people from voting and that’s something I want to help change,” he said.
Despite lacking a criminal justice background, Dr. Reese took additional coursework to meet the program’s requirements. The challenge only deepened his appreciation for the education he received.
“They (Texas Southern University) know what they’re doing over there,” he said. “I’d put our program beside any in the country or the world.”
Advice for Future Students
For those considering returning to school or pursuing an advanced degree, Dr. Reese offers practical wisdom:
- Be realistic about your prospects, but don’t underestimate yourself.
- Choose a topic you’re passionate about.
- Understand that sacrifice is part of the process (there are no shortcuts).
- Seek trusted advice before committing.
- Be a lifelong learner.
“The Ph.D. is not for everybody. It’s not about being the smartest, it’s about perseverance. As Dr. Henderson once told me: it’s a rigorous journey, but a beautiful one,” Dr. Reese concluded.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Education
Dr. Reese’s academic achievement is more than a personal milestone, it’s part of his larger mission to advocate for voting rights and inspire others to stay engaged in their communities.
His story reflects the enduring spirit of Texas Southern University, where education, service, and leadership intersect to create change-makers.
