Promise Scholar- Zonterio Weekley
Author: Giselle Martinez
When Zonterio Weekley reflects on his life, he doesn’t just see accomplishments—he sees growth, resilience, and the support of a community that believed in him. A proud graduate of Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS) and a Kalamazoo Promise Scholar, Zonterio has embraced every twist and turn in his journey. His story is one of breaking barriers and proving to himself and others that no dream is out of reach.
Growing up in Kalamazoo, Zonterio attended Edison Academy, Linden Grove Middle School, and Kalamazoo Central High School. From an early age, he was known for his curiosity and determination, traits that set him apart both in the classroom and on the football field.
After graduating with a 3.8 GPA, Zonterio chose Western Michigan University (WMU) for his undergraduate studies, pursuing a degree in criminal justice. His decision to stay close to home was influenced by his strong ties to family and the incredible opportunity provided by The Kalamazoo Promise. “I wanted to maximize my opportunities,” he says, “and The Promise allowed me to focus on my goals without the financial burden of tuition. Plus, being close to my support system was a huge benefit.”
Zonterio’s journey wasn’t without its hurdles. His first semester at WMU was a wake-up call. “I went from a 3.8 in high school to a 2.2 in college,” he admits. “I wasn’t managing my time well, and I let myself get overwhelmed.” Balancing life as a student-athlete, working full-time as a security officer, and tackling a heavy course load required more than just determination—it required growth.
Through late nights, self-reflection, and a commitment to doing better, Zonterio pulled himself up. By the time he graduated, he had improved his GPA to a 3.3, a testament to his hard work and refusal to give up. “That semester taught me a lot about accountability and resilience,” he says.
Football also presented unexpected challenges. Despite his dreams of becoming a starter, Zonterio often found himself on the sidelines. “That was tough,” he shares. “But it taught me that being part of a team isn’t always about being in the spotlight. Sometimes, it’s about contributing in ways that aren’t immediately visible.”
Zonterio didn’t let those challenges define him. Instead, he pushed forward, joining Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and Alpha Phi Sigma (a national criminal justice honor society), and participating in student organizations that helped him grow as a leader. He also gained invaluable experience through internships at the Kalamazoo County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Kalamazoo County Juvenile Home.
Now, as a public safety officer with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, Zonterio is on the front lines, serving and protecting his community. But he’s not stopping there. His ultimate dream is to join the FBI as a behavioral analyst, using his skills to make an even greater impact.
“I want to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community,” he says. “I want to be the change I wish I’d seen growing up.”
For Zonterio, success isn’t just about personal achievements. It’s about paving the way for others. As a first-generation college graduate and the first in his family to join Greek life, he takes pride in breaking barriers and setting an example for his nephews, cousins, and other young people in Kalamazoo.
“It feels amazing when my nephew says he wants to be a firefighter or police officer like ‘Uncle Zonnie,’” he says with a smile. “That’s what it’s all about—inspiring others to see what’s possible.”
Zonterio’s message is clear: diversity is essential. “When you bring different perspectives to the table, you create stronger, more inclusive institutions,” he explains. “I hope my journey shows others that they belong, no matter where they come from.”
For those walking a similar path, Zonterio offers heartfelt advice: “Take advantage of every opportunity. Manage your time wisely. Don’t let fear or outside influences hold you back.” His mantra, “Never give up,” isn’t just words—it’s how he’s lived his life.
Zonterio is currently pursuing a PhD in Homeland Security at Liberty University, where he’s diving deeper into topics like national security and counterterrorism. He’s also gone through training to serve in the Army National Guard as an intelligence analyst, a role that aligns perfectly with his passion for criminal justice and intelligence work.
As he looks to the future, Zonterio envisions not only joining federal law enforcement but also one day becoming a professor to share his knowledge and experiences with the next generation. “I want to give back in every way I can,” he says.
From overcoming setbacks to mentoring youth and breaking down barriers, Zonterio Weekley’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with resilience, hard work, and the right support. His journey is an inspiration to the Kalamazoo community and beyond—proof that no dream is too big when you’re determined to make it a reality.