Clayton State University: A Legacy Forged by Notable Alumni

Clayton State University, a public institution located in Morrow, Georgia, has been shaping minds and fostering talent since its establishment in 1969. Originally founded as Clayton Junior College, the university has undergone several transformations, becoming Clayton State College in 1986, Clayton College and State University in 1996, and finally, Clayton State University in 2005. Throughout its history, Clayton State has remained committed to its motto, "Dreams. Made Real.", providing a diverse student body with access to quality education and opportunities for personal and professional growth. The university's impact extends far beyond its 192-acre campus, thanks to the accomplishments of its notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

A Foundation of Academic Excellence and Diverse Opportunities

Clayton State University's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by only the top 5% of business schools worldwide. This accreditation underscores the quality of education provided by the College of Business, preparing graduates for success in a competitive global market. The university's diverse academic offerings have expanded over the years, with the Georgia Board of Regents granting approval for master's programs in 2004.

Clayton State University is a member of Division II of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), competing in the Peach Belt Conference (PBC).

The university's dedication to diversity is also noteworthy, with U.S. News & World Report consistently recognizing Clayton State as having one of the most diverse student body populations among comprehensive baccalaureate-level colleges and universities in the southern United States. This inclusive environment enriches the learning experience and prepares students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Notable Alumni: Champions of Mentorship, Education, and Innovation

Clayton State University has produced a remarkable array of alumni who have excelled in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Their stories serve as an inspiration to current students and demonstrate the transformative power of a Clayton State education.

Read also: Discover Clayton State University

Nursing and Lifelong Learning: Eunice Perry

Eunice Perry's career in nursing exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship, education, and a commitment to lifelong learning, highlighting the impact of Clayton State University on her journey.

Dental Hygiene: Vy Le

Vy Le, a 2021 graduate of the Dental Hygiene program, achieved Summa Cum Laude honors, exemplifying the dedication and academic excellence fostered at Clayton State.

Film Production: Maxwell Mihalis

Maxwell Mihalis, a Class of 2024 graduate in Film Production, is striving to make his senior homework assignment, "The Gateway Process," a global success, demonstrating the innovative spirit nurtured at Clayton State.

Contributions to the Georgia Board of Dentistry: Lisa Selfe

Lisa Selfe, nearly 30 years after arriving on the Morrow campus, serves as a dental hygienist on the Georgia Board of Dentistry, aiming to positively impact underserved communities, demonstrating Clayton State's commitment to service.

Entrepreneurship and Education: Dr. Eboni Dotson

Dr. Eboni Dotson's journey reflects her extensive educational background, professorship, and entrepreneurial endeavors, showcasing the diverse paths available to Clayton State alumni.

Alumni Board Leadership: Sherita Shelby

Sherita Shelby, a 2005 graduate, brings her experience from internationally known Atlanta companies to her role on the Clayton State Alumni Board, demonstrating the value of alumni engagement.

Alumni Board Service: Dr. Cynthia Rucker

Dr. Cynthia Rucker joined the Alumni Board on July 1, 2022, continuing the tradition of alumni contributing to the university's growth and development.

Alumni Board Engagement: Rachel Gaines

Rachel Gaines is another dedicated member of the Alumni Board, further strengthening the connection between alumni and the university.

International Programs: Sasha Cokuslu

Sasha Cokuslu, a 2011 and 2018 alumna, serves as the Study Abroad Manager in the International Programs office, facilitating global experiences for Clayton State students.

Alumni Board Contributions: Brigitte Collier

Brigitte Collier, a 2014 Master of Business Administration alumna, contributes her expertise to the Clayton State Alumni Board of Advisers.

Read also: Unlock Your Potential

Nursing Path: Lukeythia Bastardi

Lukeythia Bastardi, a 2006 nursing alumna, shares her unique career path and experiences in the nursing profession.

Education: Nicholas Collins

Nicholas Collins, a 2019 graduate, imparts his knowledge to the next generation as a biology and chemistry teacher at Langston Hughes High School.

Alumni Distant From Campus: Bob Phillips

Bob Phillips, a 1989 alumnus, demonstrates that the Clayton State connection remains strong, even from a distance.

Student Support: Nguyen Kim

Nguyen Kim's story highlights the distinction between students who "drop out" and those who "stop out," emphasizing the importance of support systems.

Alumni Board Insights: Adrian Washington

Dr. Adrian Washington, a 1987 alumnus and Alumni Board of Advisers member, reflects on his professional journey and the impact of Clayton State College on his success.

Academic Pursuits: Edlin Veras

Edlin Veras, a 2013 alumnus, aspires to become a professor focused on race and racism, attributing his experience at Clayton State to his professional trajectory.

Teaching and Academic Coaching: Megan Brock, Ph.D.

Megan Brock, Ph.D., a Lecturer and Academic Coach at the University of Georgia at Athens, demonstrates her passion for teaching and engaging with students.

English Degree: Mary Kate Chapman

Mary Kate Chapman is a 2013 alumna of the Masters of Liberal Arts in English degree program.

Global Service: Gideon Esuzor

Gideon Esuzor, a 2006 and 2012 alumnus, dedicates his life to serving others, spanning from West Africa to South Atlanta.

Media and Communications: Mikaela Thomas

Mikaela Thomas, a 2013 graduate of the Communication & Media Studies program, works as a multimedia and digital content producer for WFXG.

Young Alumni Council: Brittany Evans

Brittany Evans, the newest Young Alumni Council president, shares her experiences at Clayton State and her current endeavors.

Career Services: Charmaine Niles

Charmaine Niles assists the next generation of Lakers in securing their first jobs, showcasing the importance of alumni involvement in career services.

Retirement Planning: Latoya Hubbard

Latoya Hubbard, a 2001 alumna, participated in a panel focused on retirement planning and building wealth during Alumni Weekend.

Criminal Justice: Deandra DeWalt

Deandra DeWalt, a 2013 alumna, spoke to Criminal Justice students about her professional journey and the value of a Clayton State degree during Alumni Week.

Strategic Projects and Analytics: Anthony Bentil

Anthony Bentil, a 2014 MBA alumnus, is the Manager of Strategic Projects and Analytics at Collins Aerospace, demonstrating the diverse career paths available to Clayton State graduates.

Experiential Marketing: Christina Zolotova

Christina Zolotova, a 2007 alumna, has worked with numerous companies and events through her experiential marketing company, ZOLOTOVA.

Alumni Success: Yolanda Keys

Yolanda Keys is a 2014 alumni.

Career Enrichment: Rob Scott

Rob Scott has found a career path that is both professionally and personally enriching.

Discovering Clayton State: Darius Thomas

Darius Thomas learned about Clayton State through a high school classmate interested in the nursing program, highlighting the university's reputation in healthcare.

Business and Events Management: Michael Montgomery

Michael Montgomery, a 2017 Master of Business Administration alumnus, has experience in accounting, advertising, and events management across various sectors.

University Choice: Jamario Walker

Jamario Walker found Clayton State University to be the perfect institution for him after researching universities in the Atlanta area.

Educational Journey: Letitia Naghise

Letitia "Tish" Naghise's educational journey began traditionally, but her experiences at Clayton State shaped her future success.

Lasting Change: Marsha Anderson

Marsha Anderson's story emphasizes the transformative power of education and the lasting impact it can have on individuals and communities.

University Reasons: Tatiana Bradley

Tatiana Bradley chose to attend CSU for its proximity, tuition rates, and student-to-professor ratio.

Business Management : Dantez Bennamon

Dantez Bennamon, a 2019 alumni, is an active student and even more active alumnus with a degree in Business Management.

Administrative Management: Andrita Brown

Andrita Brown, a Mississippi native, is a proud Clayton State alumnus graduating with a BAS in Administrative Management.

Professors Impact: Jacque Terrell

Jacque Terrell emphasizes the impact of professors at Clayton State University as the institution celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Information Technology: Jay Richardson

Chef Jay Richardson graduated from Clayton State University in 2002, after completing the 3 degree ladder program in Information Technology.

Women's Soccer: Judith Chime

Judith Chime is arguably the greatest keeper in the history of the program and was a huge reason for the two most successful seasons in Laker women's soccer during her four-year tenure from 2002-05.

Attorney and Counselor at Law: Roodgine Bray

She is a Spring 2008 graduate of Clayton State and has let her experience there launch her into her very accomplished career.

Student Scholarship: Maria Gabrielle Mosquera

While a young student at a high school located in Ecuador, Maria Gabriella Mosquera become one of 80 candidates to receive a student scholarship sponsored by the Georgia Rotary Club of which her father was a member.

Family Impact: Angelita Howard

When Angelita Howard stepped foot on the campus of then Clayton College and State University more than 20 years ago, she embarked on a journey that would have the greatest impact on herself and her family.

Supply Chain: Ryan Marsh

Clayton State University alumnus Ryan Marsh has taken the skills he learned as a Laker student into the supply chain field and is quickly rising the ranks among his peers.

Hospitality and Travel Industry: Robert McQueston

About 10 years ago, the global recession was in full swing. At the time, Robert McQueston was a 20-year veteran in the hospitality and travel industry and was a sales manager for Delta Air Lines.

Real Estate: Nicole Clark

Purchasing Real Estate remains one of the most popular vehicles to build wealth.

Challenges: Marquez Allen

Growing up on the west side of Atlanta can be a challenge.

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