Every Step Counts — Because Every Student Matters

More than a decade ago, Demetrius Short crossed a graduation stage as the first in his immediate family to earn a college degree—a milestone not marked by ease, but by endurance. As a student at Fisk University in the early 1990s, Demetrius faced the kind of adversity that derails many: no scholarship, no car, little food, and nights spent sleeping on a dorm director’s couch or a friend’s floor. Yet every morning, dressed in a suit and carrying a briefcase, he walked 3.1 miles from campus to his internships in downtown Nashville, determined not to become another dropout statistic.

Years later, while retracing that same path, Demetrius had a divine moment—an encounter with God that would change everything. With tears in his eyes, he asked, “Why did I have to go through this?” His purpose was revealed "Every step you took was a step toward your success.” That revelation birthed a movement.

Demetrius committed to running a 5K in a full suit and sneakers as a symbolic tribute to his journey—transforming his past pain into a pathway for others. From that vow came the Steps of Success 5K Run/Walk, now celebrating its 15th year, and serves as the primary fundraising resource for our non-profit Transformation Life Center. TLC's mission is Ignite, Inspire and Transform the lives of students and youth living in underserved communities.  The vision for the organization is "Cultivating Future Leaders, and a highly capable workforce, to positively impact the community and the world!" TLC accomplishes it's mission/vision through the Pathway to Success Leadership Academy, an initiative equipping underserved students with the tools, mentorship, and mindset to succeed in college, career, and life.

Why We Run

The Steps of Success 5K is more than a race. It’s a powerful, community-driven experience that transforms footsteps into futures. Each step taken helps young leaders outrun barriers like food insecurity, financial hardship, academic instability, and lack of access to opportunity. Now more than ever, in today’s challenging educational and economic climate, our work must go further. The demand is real. The need is urgent. And the opportunity to make a lasting difference is in your hands.

Join the Movement

You can help pave the way for the next generation of leaders. By becoming a sponsor, donor, or participant in the 15th Annual Steps of Success 5K and 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, you’re not just supporting an event—you’re fueling a mission. A mission to ensure that no student walks alone in their pursuit of purpose.

Let’s take these steps together. Because every stride we take today leads to someone’s success tomorrow.