Arimus Wells, University of Denver

Arimus Wells is passionate about equitable education for all students. He is in his second year serving as a University of Denver Public Achievement (PA) coach to local high school students. PA coaches create and implement weekly lesson plans to guide and empower high school students to create, develop, and implement a civic project in their community. Arimus, through his work as a PA coach as well as his many other civic activities, has emerged as a leader among his peers exemplifying scholarship, citizenship, and service to the community. He has shown a commitment to identifying and addressing the root causes of education inequality. His work makes clear his goal to empower students to advocate for the changes they wish to see and to equip them with the tools to engage in public life. Arimus has a keen understanding of the important role that youth can play in shaping their communities. His understanding of the power youth can cultivate along with his own sense of citizenship has made him an effective mentor. Arimus’ influence is not just with younger students, though. He serves as a role model to his undergraduate peers, helping others understand their role in a democracy.