As the director of healthy lifestyles for the Atlanta-based Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA), David O. Reid (B.S. ’84) is passionate about preventing gang and youth violence and helping children lead healthier lives. His story began in North Amityville, N.Y., where he grew up playing sports and watched some of his high school friends veer off course due to drugs. He says, “I might have been lost to the streets too if it hadn’t been for my mentors and coaches.”

His NYIT experiences set him on the path to where he is today. “NYIT gave me diverse exposure to behavioral sciences and made me knowledgeable about the full spectrum of criminal justice from prevention to suppression,” he says. Reid has worked at the national office of BGCA for the past 18 years. Using what he learned about the causes of criminal behavior and the juvenile detention system, he engages kids in positive activities to give them the confidence to make good choices.

NYIT gave me diverse exposure to behavioral sciences."

One of those programs is Triple Play, which is focused on nurturing the fitness, nutrition, and social recreation goals of BGCA members ages 6 to 18. Reid travels to clubs throughout the United States to train employees and track initiatives that “create a culture of wellness for young people who are disproportionately affected by obesity and other diseases.”

He also gives back outside of work. He volunteers in the juvenile court system, coaches volleyball and track and field teams in his neighborhood, and is an active alumnus. “Love what you do,” Reid advises. “There’s a tremendous need in the human services field for talented people. Keep all doors open.”

My Favorite Thing

“Dr. Tom Burke and Dr. Schneider were very inspiring and mentoring spirits. I also loved NYIT in the fall and spring seasons as the campus became a beautiful botanical garden.”