This month, Dorothy Jean Tillman II, a remarkable teenager from Chicago, marked a significant milestone, walking across the stage at her graduation ceremony to receive her doctoral degree at just 17 years old. Her extraordinary achievement underscores a lifelong dedication to learning and a profound commitment to education.
Dr. Tillman shared with “Good Morning America” that her educational journey began with homeschooling before she transitioned to college at the exceptionally young age of 10. By 2020, she had already earned a Master of Science degree, showcasing her accelerated academic prowess. At 15, she was admitted to the rigorous Doctorate of Behavioral Health Management program at Arizona State University (ASU), further solidifying her path towards groundbreaking accomplishments.
In December 2023, at the age of 17, Tillman successfully defended her dissertation, culminating in a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from ASU’s esteemed College of Health Solutions. The formal recognition of her hard work came on May 6th when she participated in ASU’s spring commencement ceremony, a moment that celebrated years of relentless study and intellectual curiosity.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II beaming with pride, holding her doctoral degree certificate.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II proudly displays her doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health from Arizona State University.
Tillman credits her deep respect for education to her family’s values, particularly highlighting the influence of her grandmother, a participant in the Civil Rights movement. “People in my life like my grandmother… she of course harped on the importance of education and consistently learning something always,” Tillman explained in her “GMA” interview. Beyond family influence, Tillman possesses an intrinsic drive to explore diverse fields of knowledge. “I feel like that urge to learn something new just never didn’t exist for me,” she added, reflecting on her lifelong passion for discovery.
Dr. Lesley Manson, a clinical associate professor at ASU, who supervised Tillman’s dissertation, confirmed that Tillman is the youngest individual in the university’s history to achieve a doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health. Manson, overseeing Tillman’s doctoral program through ASU Online, lauded her exceptional capabilities and dedication.
During her doctoral studies, Tillman not only authored a journal article based on her dissertation but also completed a impactful internship at a university student health center. According to Dr. Manson, Tillman’s internship focused on pioneering strategies to “reduce healthcare stigma and improve that student population there to be able to enter and accept student health services.” Manson praised Tillman’s proactive approach and leadership in fostering positive change within the healthcare environment, noting her growth through navigating professional experiences.
Manson described Tillman as both “inquisitive” and “innovative,” emphasizing the rarity of her accomplishments. “It’s a wonderful celebration … but this is still something so rare and unique,” Manson stated. She further emphasized Tillman’s inspiring qualities: “She has innovative ideas and motivation, which is wonderful, and truly, I think what is inspiring is that she embodies that meaning of being a true leader.”
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II posing with her dissertation advisor, Dr. Lesley Manson, at Arizona State University.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II pictured with her mentor and professor, Dr. Lesley Manson, from Arizona State University’s clinical associate program.
Dr. Manson hopes Tillman’s journey will serve as a source of inspiration, particularly her unwavering “curiosity,” which Manson believes is a hallmark of all learners but is especially remarkable in someone so young.
Tillman also emphasizes the crucial role of her mother’s support in her journey, identifying her as a primary motivator. She admires her mother’s tireless efforts in upholding their family legacy and being a pillar of support for others. This strong maternal influence instilled in Tillman a desire to become an accomplished individual.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II walking confidently at her Arizona State University graduation ceremony in May.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II participating in the commencement ceremony at Arizona State University, marking her official graduation.
Beyond her academic achievements, Tillman is dedicated to giving back to her community. She is the founder and CEO of a leadership institute focused on integrating arts into STEM education. “I feel like adding art and putting a focus on it throughout science, technology, engineering and math makes the kids excited to learn all those things,” she explained. Tillman believes this interdisciplinary approach broadens horizons and unlocks the full potential of STEM education for young learners.
Looking ahead, Tillman, like many teenagers, is exploring her future paths. “I’m really just grateful that the world is my oyster, and that I’ve done so much so young,” she remarked. She embraces the open possibilities before her, recognizing the value of time to thoughtfully consider her aspirations.
A younger Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II pictured during her freshman year at the College of Lake County, majoring in Psychology.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II during her early college years at the College of Lake County, where she started her higher education journey at the age of 10.
Tillman offers a valuable message to young people: it’s perfectly acceptable to be in a state of discovery. “Always remember that everyone has points in their life where they feel like they’re figuring it out,” she advised. “And so figuring things out, not knowing what you want isn’t a bad thing. But making the choice not to sit down and try to figure it out is.” Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that continuous learning and exploration are key to unlocking one’s potential, regardless of age.
