MCAS Legacy: Bryant Dabney, '87

Class of 1987 Elston graduate Bryant Dabney continues to bring a positive impact to Michigan City, crediting a large part of his success to the tools and lessons Michigan City Area Schools gifted him.

Dabney was part of MCAS from first grade through his senior year, attending Eastport Elementary and Krueger Jr. High School before becoming a Red Devil. He attended Notre Dame University following graduation, thriving among some of the most select students in the country.

“MCAS prepared me for my achievements by giving me a strong education, steady support, and the confidence to aim high,” he said.

Dabney now holds many important roles within the Michigan City community. He is a Wealth Advisor at Harbour Trust & Investment Management Company and has served as City Councilman for a decade. He is part of the Rotary Club of Michigan City, 100 Black Men of Great South Bend, and 25 Black Men of Michigan City. He has served on several local boards, including Paladin, North Central Community Action Agency, and the Boys & Girls Club of Michigan City.

Dabney is proud of what he has achieved thus far and still holds many fond memories of the people and places in his journey that led him to where he is today. 

“I have many favorite memories, but one that stands out is our undefeated 7th-grade basketball season at Krueger Jr. High,” he shared. “More than the record, Coach Steve Kahn brought a diverse group of young boys together like a family. We still glowingly talk about that team and the season whenever we reconnect.”

Another important individual Dabney recalled was Ms. Connie Bachmann, a 2026 MCAS Wall of Fame inductee, who had a significant impact on his growth as a 3rd-grade student. 

“She was the first teacher to truly believe in me, and she helped me see what I could accomplish. Even after third grade, and through many years into my adult life, she continued to check in and encourage me to aim higher; I’m forever grateful for her love and support.”

Dabney keeps in touch with a number of past Eastport teachers and mentors. After reconnecting with them as an adult, he attends their monthly breakfast.

“Their warm welcome and pride in my progress meant a great deal, and I appreciated the opportunity to thank them for the support and confidence they helped instill in me,” he said.

As he continues his story in Michigan City, Dabney remains a strong supporter of public education and its ability to serve every student, furthering this passion with his involvement in the inaugural year of the MCAS Ambassador Program. 

“With the help of my teachers, principals, and guidance counselors, I’m living proof that it truly takes a village to raise a child,” he said. “I will always be thankful for those MCAS folks who had a huge influence on my life.”