Katy Harvey: Trailblazing Alumni of Berry College
Berry College, nestled in Rome, Georgia, boasts a rich history of fostering leaders and innovators across various fields. Among its distinguished alumni, several individuals stand out for their remarkable contributions and achievements. This article highlights the notable alumni of Berry College, showcasing their diverse paths and the impact they have made in their respective domains.
Introduction
Berry College, with its commitment to academic excellence and character development, has produced graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions to society. From education and business to the arts and public service, Berry alumni have left their mark on the world. This article explores the stories of some of these exceptional individuals, celebrating their accomplishments and the legacy they carry forward.
Notable Alumni Profiles
Education
- Tracey E.: Tracey E. is an alumna who deeply values the impact of mentorship and support systems. She recalls Margaret Darby's writing seminar, which profoundly impacted her scholarly work. The close care and workshopping of papers instilled skills and confidence that she later attributed to her success in writing a lengthy scholarly book. Tracey also acknowledges the support she received from Chris Vecsey and the philosophy and religion department during a difficult time when she lost her mother. Professor Josiah Young's encouragement to consider a career as a professor was another transformative moment. Additionally, R.V. Smith's arrangement of a study-abroad opportunity to Kenya and Tanzania, along with studying with Manning Marable, significantly shaped her life. Now serving as provost and dean of the faculty, Tracey sees her return to Colgate as a sense of reciprocity, prioritizing faculty support and aiming to demonstrate it equitably. She connects with current Opportunity Programs (OUS) students, reminding them of the program's significant role in providing access to faculty mentorship, cohort building, and resources for success.
Business and Entrepreneurship
- Online Media Company Owner: An alumnus owns an online media company, GearInstitute.com, which produces outdoor and action sports gear reviews. The perks of owning the site include being invited on trips by gear companies to test their new products, allowing him to write about his experiences.
- Internet Consultant: This alumnus also works as an Internet consultant, providing IT support work for the federal Department of Health and Human Services’ Indian Health Service and the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs.
- Augmented Reality App Developer: Additionally, he is part of ApresActive, an augmented reality app development company focusing on the outdoors, based in Durango, Colorado.
Arts and Culture
- Pam Troutman: Pam Troutman retired from 34 years at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) in July 2014 and has returned to her college education roots in studio art as an artist at ART a La Carte in Occoquan, Virginia, specializing in beaded jewelry, bead embroidery, bead weaving, and beaded lanyards.
Public Service and Government
- Stephanie Hamlett: In the spring of 2014, Stephanie Hamlett was appointed by Governor Terry McAuliffe to be the Executive Director of the Virginia Resources Authority.
- Kim Slayton White: Kim Slayton White is a judge in the Tenth Judicial Circuit of Virginia.
- Brian Parsons: Brian Parsons works at the Department of Homeland Security’s Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, overseeing the Department’s efforts to strengthen compliance with the nondiscrimination protections of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, focusing on emergency management and deploying to the field following major disasters.
Science and Education
- Science Teacher: An alumnus is a ninth-grade teacher in the Bronx, teaching Living Environment and other science electives. He focuses on creating a classroom culture that allows for difficult conversations about significant everyday life issues.
Other Notable Mentions
- Katie Chamberlain: Katie Chamberlain, is the president of the Colgate Club of New Mexico, organizing events, like Albuquerque Isotopes baseball games.
Thematic Elements in Alumni Experiences
The Importance of Mentorship
Many alumni emphasize the significance of mentorship during their time at Berry College. The support and guidance they received from faculty and staff played a crucial role in shaping their academic and professional trajectories. Mentors provided not only academic assistance but also personal encouragement, helping students navigate challenges and discover their potential.
Community and Support Systems
The sense of community fostered at Berry College is another recurring theme in alumni reflections. Many graduates highlight the importance of finding a supportive network of peers and mentors who provided encouragement and a sense of belonging. These communities often extended beyond the classroom, creating lasting bonds that continued to provide support long after graduation.
Overcoming Challenges
Berry College alumni often faced personal, economic, and social challenges during their academic journeys. However, the support they received from the college community and the resources available to them helped them overcome these obstacles and achieve their goals. Their stories serve as an inspiration to current students facing similar challenges.
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Social Justice and Impact
Many Berry College alumni are driven by a desire to make a positive impact on society. They are involved in various social justice initiatives and work to address inequities in their communities. Their commitment to service reflects the values instilled in them during their time at Berry College.
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