Jovon C. Burkes, M.Ed., LLPC
The High School Michigan All-Star, college football player and team captain made a life out of leadership. Born and raised in Highland Park, Michigan, Jovon C. Burkes not only began his football career there in little league but also learned the importance of strength and self-motivation.
Burkes gravitated towards football and used it as a tool to develop life skills. He graduated from Detroit Central High School and went on to continue his football career at Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in Bowling Green, Ohio. As an undergraduate at BGSU, Burkes studied Child and Family and Community Services. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree, he furthered his education at BGSU where he obtained his Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling with a specialization in School Counseling.
Developing individual’s personal strengths from their internal struggles is Burkes’ life purpose. He enjoys assisting young men and student athletes with their development and strives to put them in the position to overcome their life obstacles. As a result, Jovon created the S.W.A.G. (Strain With Ambition to be Great) and ID: It’s Doable programs. As a mentor and Licensed Counselor, he focuses on identity development, trauma, mental health, successfully balancing education and sports and the crucial transition from high school to college and college to career.