This post was written by Ayanna Roberts, B.A. ’24, M.A. in Integrated Design student.
Back on Pennsylvania Avenue, everyone knew who to call when something wasn’t right. His name is Tourian Aldridge, but the neighborhood called him “Captain America.” It wasn’t about jokes; it was about actions. He stood up for people, spoke out when others stayed quiet, and made it clear he wasn’t going to let anyone get pushed over.
After Tourian graduated high school, his life took an unexpected turn. He was grieving the loss of his mother to breast cancer when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Uncertainty about this future forced aside his trademark sense of responsibility, until he found his own superhero.
“When I worked for Turn Around Tuesday, my director would always ask me, ‘What are you doing with your life?’ I know your mom passed, but I’m pretty sure she wouldn’t want you to just be sitting on a couch all day, sleeping’,” Tourian recalled.
That hard truth became a wake-up call. He realized he had to move forward, not just for himself, but also to honor his mother.
In fall of 2022, Tourian enrolled at Baltimore City Community College.
As a student at BCCC, Tourian attended a college fair where he met Amadou Bah, an admission counselor at The University of Baltimore. Tourian shared his dream of helping juveniles rebuild their lives after making mistakes.
Bah convinced Tourian that UBalt had the perfect place for him. After graduating with an associate degree in psychology, Tourian came to UBalt for its B.S in Criminal Justice program.
Tourian said his studies are giving him a deeper understanding of the systems he hopes to change. He feels equipped with the tools he needs to advocate for meaningful reform within the justice system.
His passion for justice is partially rooted in his own experiences.
“When I get my degree, it’s going to open so many doors and be so powerful,” he said. “I am an advocate for individuals with disabilities. I was hit by a car when I was 13, so I have left side paralysis. Graduating will be a symbol that no matter your limitations or what held you back the first time, you can still accomplish your goals.”
As he works his way through his program, Tourian is enjoying finding professors who can bring real-world practice into the classroom.
“I enjoy having people who have actually been in the field to teach what I’ll be doing because it opens up a broader perspective,” he said.
When he isn’t in class, Tourian has made point of getting involved and finding ways to support those around him. He currently works with the Henry and Ruth Blaustein Rosenberg Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion. His role allows him to help new students get acquainted with the University and finish strong.
In many ways, the same advocacy that once earned him the nickname “Captain America” continues to define his journey.