ASU Local graduate channels commitment to serving LA into public policy degree
Lawrence Carroll graduates this spring with a bachelor’s degree in public service and public policy. Photo by Matt Palanca
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2026 graduates.
By Maira Hernandez
For Lawrence Carroll, returning to college after more than two decades was about more than earning a degree — it was about fulfilling a goal that had remained unfinished for years.
This spring, Carroll graduates from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in public service and public policy from the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions after taking a 20-year hiatus from higher education.
“I always felt like a little piece has been missing,” Carroll said. “I’d wake up and see my friends graduate and feel like I was inadequate, like I was missing something. How can this guy that’s so smart and so accomplished in other areas of his life not have a degree?”
He attended the university via ASU Local, a hybrid program that pairs in-person coaching and mentorship as part of a tightly knit community with the flexibility of accessing all coursework online, 24/7, through ASU Online.
Before returning to school, Carroll had already established himself as a community leader across Los Angeles. He serves as board president of LA Pride, founded the nonprofit Majestic Art Gallery and previously served on his neighborhood council. Through Majestic Art Gallery, Carroll uses art exhibitions to help families save for higher education and create opportunities for community engagement.
His commitment to service also led to one of his proudest moments during his time with ASU Local — hosting his first art exhibit, “Faces of Downtown” at the ASU California Center Broadway in partnership with School on Wheels, a nonprofit that supports students experiencing homelessness through tutoring and educational assistance.
It was through his neighborhood council work that ASU Local first entered his life. Carroll came across an email promoting opportunities for adults interested in returning to college. At the time, his son had reached an age where Carroll felt he could begin dedicating more time to his own educational goals.
Encouraged by his son, who told him to “follow your dreams, dada,” Carroll decided to apply.
Two years later, he is graduating.
While exploring degree options, Carroll realized his lifelong passion for advocacy, nonprofit work and community engagement naturally aligned with public service and public policy.
Throughout his time at ASU Local, Carroll balanced numerous leadership roles while pursuing his degree full time. Alongside being a father and student, he served as nonprofit founder and Los Angeles president of LGBTQIA+ Pride.
“ASU Local has been a game-changer for me,” Carroll said. “My success coach has been more than just a mentor — they’ve guided me academically, connected me with incredible opportunities and supported my personal growth every step of the way. Through ASU Local, I’ve found a community of like-minded people, built meaningful connections and gained clarity on my career path.
“Most importantly, this experience has given me the confidence to know that every twist and turn in my journey has led me to where I’m meant to be. I finally feel empowered, supported and ready for what’s next.”
Learn more about ASU Local at asulocal.asu.edu.
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