For Dustin Fulton, MS, there’s no place like home. A native Memphian and graduate of Central High School, Fulton graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2011, and knew he wanted to come back to Memphis to make a difference in the community.
Recently he has been named to the Greater Memphis Chamber’s 2017 Young Memphis List. The honor was given to only 10 young Memphians who choose to dedicate time making Memphis a better place, while motivating other young professionals to choose the 901.
“Part of the reason I was able to be considered for this award was through the efforts of Dr. Ken Brown and the University’s affiliation and membership with the Greater Memphis Chamber,” said Fulton. “It shows that we’re not just functioning within the city on our own, but are involved with civic and community organizations alike.”
The honor was given to a Memphis Chamber member who is under the age of 40 and requires nomination through the Greater Memphis Chamber.
“These 10 young Memphians represent an inspiring group of individuals who have all found a home in Memphis and have dedicated their time towards making a meaningful impact on their community. The Chamber is honored to share their story which will hopefully motivate others to move here and engage in the growth of Memphis,” said Phil Trenary, President and CEO, Greater Memphis Chamber, in a press release about the honorees.
Fulton who received a Master’s degree in Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Memphis, serves as the Senior Equity Assurance Administrator for the Office of Equity and Diversity for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. He serves as advisor for the Kappa League of Memphis helping young men grow and develop their leadership skills. He is also an alum of Memphis Challenge– an organization that works with minority students to return and make an impact within the Memphis community.
“What I really love about the city of Memphis is the ability to network,” said Fulton. “It’s such a big city, but you start talking to someone and everybody knows everybody, which I think works out great for Millennials who are looking for opportunities, career growth, and to be empowered in the city.”
Memphis has recently been ranked among the top five cities in America by the Urban Land Institute where millennials are moving. The city ranked number four with an increase of 9.5 percent from 2010-2015 of millennials moving to the area. Among the reasons millennials are moving to the city are economic opportunities, culturally rich and diverse urban areas, and the low cost of living.
So what does the Bluff City slogan of ‘Grit and Grind’ mean to Fulton? According to him, “Grit is the desire to accomplish something. Grind is the will to make that desire and those goals a reality. When you put them together you not only have the desire, but the will to make it happen for yourself. There are several organizations to become involved with in Memphis that puts you in the company of the right people, to make whatever your dream is, a reality.”
Video courtesy of the Greater Memphis Chamber