I received my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in May 2009. During my undergraduate career I was involved with a number of organizations and departments, including the Student Government Association, the University Program Council, the Black Student Union, the Freshman Year Experience Office and the Athletics Department, among others.
In December 2011, I graduated with my Master’s of Public Administration and Nonprofit Management. I also received a Graduate Certificate of Nonprofit Organization and Community Governance. While in graduate school I was inducted into the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society, the Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society, and was the National Forum for Black Public Administrators Scholarship Recipient in 2011.
One of the best things about Auburn is the Creed. My favorite stanza is “I believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.”
With a passion to build sustainable communities, I left Auburn and began my career in Albany, Ga., in November 2011 and committed to a year of service as an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteer In Service To America) at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Albany for the United Way of Southwest Georgia. During my year as an AmeriCorps member, I participated in several community initiatives, my most notable accomplishment was spearheading the Community Hygiene Drive, which I continued throughout my time in Albany.
In November 2012, I furthered my career in youth development and accepted the charge to serve as the Program Director for the Albany Area YMCA 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) Program, which offers free academic and enrichment opportunities during non-school hours to students in the Dougherty County School System (DCSS). During my tenure with the 21st CCLC Program, I successfully managed two grants valued at $4 million, allocated resources, and established partnerships that provided exciting learning opportunities for our students. In addition to my administrative duties, I maintained a presence and relationship with over 600 children and their families. Under my leadership and the hard work of dedicated youth development professionals, the program received the Dougherty County School Systems Partners In Excellence Award in 2015.
I returned to my beloved alma mater, Auburn University, in December 2015 and now serve as the Inclusion and Diversity Coordinator in the Office of Alumni Affairs for the Auburn Alumni Association. I am also a PhD candidate in the Educational Leadership program at Auburn University with a focus on Administration, Supervision, and Curriculum. I plan to continue on my path of impacting positive social change within my organization, community, and society at large.
I can truly say that I had a great Auburn Experience. Looking back, I was extremely involved on campus and took advantage of a number of resources that were available. Above all, my experience was shaped by the amazing faculty and staff that took the time to invest in me and the friends I made that I will cherish for years to come.