MIAMI — Willie Logan, head of the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation (OLCDC) and a former politician, has received his doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Community Economic Development, almost eight years after starting the program at the Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester.
In spearheading the revitalization and re-development of Opa-locka, one of Miami’s most challenging neighborhoods, it would seem the new credentials would come in handy. Logan at the OLCDC has been able to secure millions through a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, along with $250,000 from the National Endowment for the Arts.
But with his time so valuable, why devote so many years to securing a Ph.D?
“Whether your career is taking off or excelling at a rapid pace,” he said, “finish what you start. It may take longer than planned, be harder than imagined and the payoff may be unclear. But the pursuit of a lofty goal, and the all-important follow-through, are marks of a winner.”
Logan started the Ph.D program in 2005. Most candidates complete their doctorate in four to five years, although some take up to twice as long if other commitments arise. Logan achieved his Ph.D while running OLCDC full time, a sign of his motivation.
“I earned the Ph.D. for myself,” he said. “I believe that education pays off.”
His nearest family members attended the event as Logan at 55 took part in a ceremony with more than 2,000 other students.
Photo: COURTESY OF WILLIE LOGAS
OFFICALLY “DR.” LOGAN: Willie Logan, head of the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation, at his Southern New Hampshire University graduation ceremony in Manchester, N.H. where he received his doctorate degree in the Philosophy of Community Economic Development.
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