Positivity Is Greater Than Negativity, Bottom Line

Meet David Andre Hines II, EICC Alum and Iowa Literary Council’s 2024 Outstanding Adult Learner of the Year

In the heart of Englewood, a neighborhood on Chicago's Southwest Side known for its daunting crime statistics, one young man dared to dream beyond the shadows.  

According to a PropertyClub article titled, “12 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago,” Englewood’s crime rate is 125 percent higher than the Chicago average. Residents have a 1 in 37 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 15 chance of becoming a victim of a property crime, with burglary, assault, and robbery being all too common. Despite these odds, David Andre Hines II chose a different path. 

“The environment I grew up in wasn't necessarily development-oriented,” explained Hines. “But as I got older and had kids of my own, I started seeking more development in my life.” 

The move to Davenport, Iowa, a city known for its tight-knit community and scenic views along the Mississippi River, marked the beginning of a transformative chapter for Hines. Davenport offered a fresh start and the stability he sought for his family. And, it was here that Hines found Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) — a place that would become pivotal in his educational journey. 

Hines discovered EICC while researching local colleges online, seeking a program that could help him achieve his goals. It was his sixth attempt at earning his High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma.

“My journey as an adult learner was difficult, to say the least. It took me many attempts, but the thing that motivated me was wanting to be the one in my family to break our generational curses.” 

Balancing the demands of being a full-time father and holding a full-time job while attending night classes was no easy feat. “It was stressful, but I knew it was something that had to be done. I created a system for myself and I just woke up and ate the system every day,” he said.  

Mentorship played a vital role in Hines' success at EICC. He fondly remembers a presentation by Megan Linzy-Johnson, EICC’s West Davenport Center Office Coordinator, during his HSE program orientation. Like Hines, Linzy-Johnson faced her fair share of obstacles in earning her High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma from EICC. “It touched my spirit,” he said. Her words, along with the motivational content he followed on social media, helped him persevere. 

In a mere 39 days, Hines passed the HiSET exam and earned his HSE diploma in 2019. But he didn't stop there. He went on to obtain his Commercial Driver's License (CDL) through EICC’s truck driving program and launched his own apparel company, Ensue Gear. The passion project is now Hines’ full-time job as he plans to become a student in EICC’s psychology program this fall. 

According to Hines, Ensue Gear represents development. Each garment on the brand’s website features its logo, '+>-'. “The logo stands for ‘positivity is greater than negativity, bottom line,’” he explained. The brand is a testament to his belief that a positive mindset is essential for overcoming life's challenges and achieving success. 

Hines maintained his connection with EICC by visiting classrooms and sharing his experiences with current students. “I try to explain that there will be challenges, but once you achieve your goals, it’s all worth it. When I received my HSE diploma, I realized it was about proving to myself that I could accomplish something and see it through.”  

In the community, students proudly wear Ensue Gear in classrooms, gyms, soccer fields, tennis courts, and more, inspired by his journey. “Seeing my path reflected in others is truly humbling,” Hines said, his eyes shining with pride. “It's more than just clothing; it's a symbol of growth and the power of a positive mindset.” 

In recognition of his achievements, Hines received the Iowa Literary Council’s 2024 Outstanding Adult Learner of the Year Award. The award ceremony, held during Scott Community College’s HSED Commencement in June, was a deeply emotional experience for him.  

“It brought back so many emotions, some of the same emotions I had at my graduation. Being in that same building, it was like God was saying the doors are getting ready to open because you put the work in. It's just another milestone,” he reflected.

Hines' advice to other adult learners is simple yet profound: "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. Whether you feel guilt or fear of failure, you'll never know if you don't try. Just put one foot in front of the other.”