From Panther Graduate to Social Media Strategist: A Full-Circle Moment and My Commitment to Giving Back

From a 2019 graduate of Clark Atlanta University to becoming their social media strategist—what a full-circle moment. 🥹

There are some moments in your career that remind you exactly why you do the work you do. For me, stepping into the role of Social Media Strategist for Clark Atlanta University—my alma mater—has been one of those moments.

Since day one, I’ve been energized by the opportunity to serve the very community that helped shape me. Every project, every campaign, every piece of content feels like both a responsibility and a privilege.

Yes, I’m a little biased because I attended and graduated from the illustrious CAU, but the bias comes from a place of deep gratitude. I LOVE being the behind-the-scenes person who connects content to data, strategy to storytelling, and campus life to the digital world. More than anything, I love amplifying and engaging with our CAU community—alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters.

So when we rolled out our Giving Tuesday campaign in support of Gap Scholarship funding, it hit home for me in a very personal way. I had to put my money where my mouth is and commit financially to supporting the students—because I know what that support can mean.

These scholarships aren’t just financial aid; they are lifelines. They are the difference between dropping out and crossing the finish line. I know because I was one of those students—piecing together student loans, applying for every scholarship I could find, and leaning on my family whenever they could help to get me through my college years.

Find a Way or Make One was imprinted on my heart and soul at CAU (IYKYK 😅). And when I reached moments where it felt like there wasn’t a way, CAU made one for me.

Thanks to the gap scholarships I received, I was able to graduate on time and with honors. That support didn’t just help me academically—it helped build the confidence, stability, and resilience that I carry into my career today.

As a student, the financial stress can feel overwhelming. You're trying to focus on finishing strong, but finances linger in the back of your mind like a weight you can’t quite shake. So when our campaign link finally went live and we began sharing it across CAU’s social media channels, I didn’t hesitate. I donated because I know there are students right now worrying about how they’ll afford next semester—just like I did, and just like many students across the nation still do.

Even if my gift helps only one student, I know it will make a difference. My life was forever changed because someone decided to give back. And now, it’s my turn to pay it forward.

Although Giving Tuesday has passed, I encourage you to give back to a cause that benefits the greater good—whatever that may be, and in whatever way feels meaningful to you.

Support can look like donating, volunteering, mentoring, advocating, or simply showing up with intention. Impact is impact.

For those who want to donate to CAU’s Gap Scholarship fund, here is the link: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/clark-atlanta-university-inc/giving-tuesday-2025