Denmark, S.C. – Voorhees University alumnus and former athlete Dontavious Patrick recently made his acting debut as an extra in the FX production of Atlanta.
Patrick, who graduated from Voorhees in 2020 and was second in the nation for the triple jump in track and field for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics in 2018, was an extra in the auditorium scene of an episode of Atlanta when students received scholarships to college.
“I was supposed to act really excited about the college scholarship announcement by the speaker,” Patrick said of his role in the auditorium scene.
“As an avid fan of Atlanta and as an acclaimed enthusiast of creator/director Donald Glover, I am tremendously proud that our very own Mr. Dontavious Patrick is following his dreams and passion in life. He was a winner as a Voorhees Track and Field national contender and remains a champion in his career pursuits,” said Ronnie Hopkins, president of Voorhees University.
Patrick said his sociology degree from Voorhees does not directly impact his acting, but it does help him to get into the proper mindset. He has learned to understand and appreciate other points of view. That understanding helps him in acting.
“Being an extra pays well, but consistent employment is the priority,” said Patrick, who works in finance for an Atlanta business. He also said that time management is essential in juggling acting and his regular job.
What sparked his interest in acting? Patrick says that he was cast in a play last year with his friend, Cordell Cade, a film and theater producer.
“He asked if I wanted to be an extra, and I went for it,” Patrick said. “Development and adaptation are important to me and acting. I love doing things, and I want to be successful.”
According to Patrick, his family is the driving force behind and inspiration for his success. He also said he appreciates his experience at Voorhees, where he attended under a full track and field scholarship.
Patrick’s experience at Voorhees was so fulfilling that he would like to return one day as an employee who helps students. While he sees himself functioning in many roles, he thinks he can be most beneficial in financial aid.
What advice would he have for new and graduating students? “Never be afraid of failure. Never give up. Your potential has no limit,” he said.
