Donovan was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is a 2023 graduate from New York University with a Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy. He was elected as the Co-Vice President of Service for the university-wide Inter-Residence Hall Council, served as a peer mentor for NYU's community-service focused, pre-orientation programme 'Project Outreach', and delivered the Class of 2023's All-University Student Commencement Address at Yankee Stadium.

Donova has interned at the White House Office of First Lady Jill Biden, the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, the African American Mayors Association, and with New York City Council Members Robert Cornegy and Carlina Rivera.

Most recently, Donovan served as a District Representative for PA State Senator Art Haywood, where he spearheaded an initiative to get low-paid workers into new, higher-paid positions. Donovan is interested in curbing urban poverty and homelessness.

Donovan is a Rhodes scholar.