Tavares Martin’s path to Yale wasn’t a straight one, but every twist and turn helped shape the leader he is today.

Before setting foot on the prestigious Ivy League campus in New Haven, Tavares built his foundation at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), where he discovered a passion for mental health, found a supportive community, and began to chart his future.

Today, he’s not only a double major in Psychology and Statistics & Data Science at Yale, but also the founder of Strong Mind HQ, a platform dedicated to improving emotional and mental health support for men, especially Black men.

His journey began in the world of fitness. “Fitness was my anchor,” Tavares explained. “It got me through some of my hardest times, especially after I faced homelessness during my first college attempt.” That season of struggle fueled his desire to serve others, and the clarity he found during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired him to return to school with a new mission.

At NOVA, Tavares encountered more than just classrooms. He found professors who believed in him and an advising team that offered unwavering support. He credits Professor Carolyn Lorente, Dr. Karen Livesey, and Dr. Erica Smith for helping him grow intellectually and personally. “They genuinely cared,” he said. “It wasn’t just about academics; they saw me as a whole person. That made all the difference.”

Tavares thrived at NOVA, graduating summa cum laude and a full-ride scholarship to Yale. “It felt surreal,” he said. “Coming from where I started, I never thought I’d be in this position. But every challenge prepared me for this moment.”

Reflecting on his time at NOVA, he emphasizes how vital it is for students to fully engage. “The resources are there; you just have to use them. Whether it was help from the Foundation, faculty mentorship, or just someone to talk to, I always felt supported.”

As the first in his family to attend an Ivy League institution, Tavares sees his journey as bigger than himself. “I’m not just doing this for me. I want to show others what’s possible, especially students from low-income backgrounds or those who have felt like they have run out of second chances. It’s never too late.”

Looking ahead, Tavares plans on using his education to advance mental health advocacy and support underrepresented voices in higher education. Through Strong Mind HQ and beyond, he’s committed to helping others find their strength and speak their truth.

When asked for his advice to donors thinking about supporting NOVA students, Tavaris replied, “Take the leap. You’ll be amazed at what you can help others accomplish. I am very grateful for the Foundation and donors for believing in me and helping me make my Ivy dreams a reality.”

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