School of Business Administration

The Flyer Promise Scholars program at the University of Dayton does more than make higher education attainable. It empowers students to reach new heights by providing not only financial support but also mentorship, leadership development and professional growth opportunities. With full tuition coverage and substantial assistance for housing and meals through university and donor funds, Flyer Promise Scholars receive a foundation that extends far beyond the classroom.

For students like Micah Pitts, Flyer Promise is a transformative experience. A sophomore marketing major with a concentration in business-to-business sales, Pitts embodies the essence of the program — ambitious, driven and community-focused. Originally from Cincinnati and a graduate of Archbishop Moeller High School, Pitts was drawn to UD for its strong sense of community. He first experienced the campus during a spring semester tour of his senior year and immediately felt at home.

Building a Foundation in Business and Leadership

Pitts is deeply involved in campus life. He is an active member of Pi Sigma Epsilon, a business fraternity centered on sales, which helped solidify his passion for marketing. In addition, he serves as a Dean's Ambassador, where he gives tours to prospective students, and he works as a desk assistant for Housing and Residence Life at Stuart Hall. His involvement in these roles has allowed him to connect with students, faculty and visitors, making him a recognizable and influential presence at UD.

The Flyer Promise Scholars program has played a significant role in his journey. From the moment he joined, Pitts found a network of support through academic enrichment, mentoring and leadership opportunities. He credits the program for helping him build confidence and navigate college as a first-generation student.

Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Opportunities

Pitts' path to success has not been without challenges. In the spring of his junior year of high school, his father and a close family friend were tragically killed in an auto accident. Instead of celebrating his senior year with his father, Pitts was forced to navigate grief alongside his mother and siblings. The weight of this loss became a driving force in his motivation to succeed.

As Pitts puts it:

"I lost not only a father but a figure—the man I had looked up to since I was born. He would always tell me, ‘Son, one day you will be the man of the house.’ Who knew it would be so soon? Who knew that at 16, I would become the man of the house? So going to college is not a choice. Finishing college is a must. I must finish school so I can help my mother, my family, financially."

Pitts shares that no matter where life takes him, he will always carry his father in his heart.

"If I ever forget how much I’m loved, I’ll just remember the way my dad was always there, reminding me. I love you more than words can ever say. Being a first-generation male college graduate is a must."

Despite these hardships, Pitts entered college with a determination to succeed, using Flyer Promise as a stepping stone to growth and resilience.

"Micah often comments that he not only wants UD to have an impact on him but he wants to leave a lasting impact on UD. And so he gives back in ways which matter to his head (through PSE and in the classroom) and to his heart (serving as a student leader with Flyer Promise Scholars as well as a Dean's Ambassador)," said Kathleen D. Henderson, director of college access, success, and transition.

Giving Back and Making an Impact

Pitts served on the Flyer Promise executive board during his freshman year, planning events that strengthened the program's sense of community. From holiday gatherings where students wrote cards for advisors to social outings like bowling nights and visits to Scene75, he helped create meaningful experiences for his fellow scholars.

Through his involvement in PSE, Pitts has gained hands-on experience in sales, learning how to conduct business calls, analyze company needs and present solutions with confidence. He attributes much of his professional development to the fraternity and the mentorship provided through Flyer Promise.

Pitts shared his experiences as a second-year student with prospective students and their families during Fall Preview Day 2024. When asked on the panel about his proudest accomplishment at UD so far, he simply replied, “Making it through.” He spoke candidly about the challenges of college life and the support systems that helped him navigate them.

After the panel, a family approached Micah to thank him for his words, sharing that his message deeply resonated with them.

As he continues his journey at UD, Pitts remains committed to making a lasting impact. He encourages prospective students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new opportunities, just as he has.

“Dayton has provided me with endless resources. The people I’ve met, the professors, everyone here genuinely cares about your success,” he said.

With his passion for sales, leadership and service, Pitts is proving that Flyer Promise is more than just a scholarship — it is a foundation for building a bright and impactful future.