Black History Month –Marvin Sutton
The UTA College of Business celebrates Black History Month by recognizing the success and accomplishments of our Black Alumni. Marvin Sutton earned a bachelor of science in accounting in 2005 from UTA. He is a retired Air Traffic Controller and Veteran of the United States Air Force. Presented below are his contributions, accolades, professional goals, and achievements.
Since graduating from UTA, what has been your greatest accomplishment?
- One of my greatest accomplishments since graduating from UTA is passing the CPA exam.
- I was elected to Arlington City Council District 3, as the first African American to represent the district since the inception of single-member districts.
- I was honored at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. for my dedication to the community as an Air Force Veteran.
- I was also the 1st to receive the Texas 6th Congressional District Congressional Veteran Commendation awarded in recognition of outstanding and invaluable service to the community and country.
- I was also an honorary pilot onboard a USAF supersonic jet. As an air traffic controller during 9/11, we were successful in securing our National Airspace System.
Marvin speaking at UTA event on September 30, 2019.
What has been your biggest challenge since graduating?
My biggest challenge was getting elected to Arlington City Council. It took 12 years to be elected.
Do you take part in any initiatives, community service, or projects that make you proud?
I was involved in the UTA student government organizations, which has allowed me to become actively engaged in government and community service. Currently, I actively volunteer at food drives, feeding the hungry, cleaning the community, attending career days at local schools, and volunteering as a deputy registrar, registering over 3,000 voters. While serving on the Arlington City Council, we created the Diversity and Unity Council to address disparities in our city.
What advice would you give to young black students entering higher education?
I would tell them that higher education allows unlimited access and opportunities to achieve their dreams and ambitions.
What goals do you have for yourself or your career?
I want to continue to have a major impact on our community and create an atmosphere that allows everyone to achieve their “American Dream.”
Did you feel welcome at UTA? What made you feel included?
Yes. The various student organizations and departments provided a welcoming atmosphere that made you feel at home.
Marvin at Red River Airport Traffic Control Tower
in Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota on May 17, 2016.
What traditions do you celebrate or honor during black history month?
Every Black History Month, I participate in school programs as a presenter.
What are any goals you have for the black community?
I want to maximize opportunities for success and eliminate activities that are detrimental to our society.
Please share three fun facts about yourself:
- I visited over 30 state capitals.
- I was an amateur bodybuilder in the US Air Force.
- I was an election judge for over 20 years.