Carlthel Brent

Carlthel Brent’s path to success began with a decision to make his education more accessible. Originally, he was commuting to Harold Washington College with his high school friends but found the long journey challenging. In search of a closer option, he transferred to Olive-Harvey College, located just 15 minutes from his home in Riverdale.

At Olive-Harvey, Carlthel had the freedom to explore several academic pathways—business, nursing, and criminal justice—before earning an associate degree in general studies in 2013. Throughout his time at the college, he appreciated the personalized support he received from deans, advisors, and professors.

“It felt like one-on-one attention, which really shaped me as a student,” Carlthel said.

The lessons Carlthel learned at Olive-Harvey extended far beyond academics. Professors held him accountable, teaching him discipline that continues to guide him today. Additionally, balancing school with work taught him time management, a skill that served him well when he became a store manager after graduation.

Carlthel’s experience at Olive-Harvey also inspired him to give back to his community. He participated in committees at Olive-Harvey that focused on criminal justice reform, drawing from personal experiences with loved ones who had been incarcerated. These experiences fueled his passion for social work and led him to his current role at a behavioral health clinic, where he educates parolees and those formerly incarcerated on housing, mental health, and support resources.

He also works with Kreative Kinnectionz Youth Outreach Inc., a nonprofit committed to curbing violence and fostering economic empowerment. Through programs in financial literacy and social-emotional well-being, Kreative Kinnectionz serves children and adults, equipping them with tools to thrive. As a trauma-informed care trainer, Carlthel teaches people how to navigate and overcome trauma, aiming to uplift his community.

“As long as your heart is beating, you still have a chance,” he said, a mantra he lives by and shares with those he supports.

Carlthel credits City Colleges for helping him develop critical networking skills and a goal-oriented mindset.

“City Colleges taught me the importance of having a plan. You can change it, scratch it, and start over, but you need a plan,” he emphasized.

Now a government contractor, administrator, and advocate, Carlthel strives to lead by example and share his knowledge with everyone he meets.