• Why did you choose UNCG?
  • Greensboro is home to me, so after 9 years in Atlanta, the idea of moving back to pursue my graduate degrees was very attractive. Furthermore, I was very impressed by the mission statement of the Joint Master of Social Work program. Because my undergrad experience was at a Predominantly White Institution, I was excited to study on Historically Black & Minority Serving campuses. My decision to return to UNCG for my Doctorate was driven by the research focus of faculty within the Public Health Education Department. I was so impressed with the resources available, specifically at The Institute to Promote Athlete Health & Wellness.

• What is your favorite memory of UNCG/HHS?
  • • I have so many great memories at UNCG! I like to say I am a 3-time graduate, since I also “graduated” from UNCG pre-school! Back then, my mom was working in the Mossman Building as the Director of Contracts & Grants, and the preschool director would often take me on a walk (or stroller ride!), so we could spend a few minutes together during the school day. Then, growing up, I spent many summers attending UNCG sports camps – I remember getting soft serve ice cream in the cafeteria during lunch, and dreaming of the day I was a student. Although I decided to go elsewhere for my undergrad, coming back to UNCG for my Master’s and Doctoral Degrees brought back all of those memories. But I think the sweetest surprise was walking through the EUC one day, and realizing my mom’s name was on the wall for winning an award for her service to the university. That really made me want to leave my own legacy behind, as well.

• What have you done since graduation/tell us about your career?
  • Thanks to connections I developed while working with my mentor, Dr. Wyrick, I landed in a position that perfectly suits my unique academic & professional background, as well as my passion for athlete mental health. I am currently employed by Cigna, as the Behavioral Specialist dedicated to the National Football League account. It’s exciting to be able to use skills I learned from the Social Work & Public Health Education programs, while making an impact on the population I care so deeply about. In my role, I am able to work with football players & their families, raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma, educating those individuals about the behavioral benefits they have, and working with them to determine appropriate levels of care. Perhaps most rewarding is the part of my job that directly relates to my dissertation research. Everyday I help these athletes find behavioral health care providers who make them feel safe, seen, and supported during treatment. My dissertation findings suggest that many providers do not have high competencies when it comes to the culture of sports. So, I work every day to change this, by adding competent providers to our network, and connecting guys who are ready for support to a counselor who understands their unique needs.

• Do you have any advice for current students?
  • I think no matter what degree you are working toward, it is important to make time to breathe… make time for self-care… and make time to have a little bit of fun. College can be tough – so on those tougher days, always remember your “why”. Having that motivation makes it all seem possible.

• Why did you choose to become involved as a donor?
  • A few things motivated me to become a donor. First, my mom leads by example. Seeing her be such a proud Spartan alumnus and retiree made me want to continue the family tradition. Second, I was honored with a Dr. Bob Wineburg Scholarship to help with the cost of my JMSW. Ironically, Dr. Wineburg became one of the most influential mentors I had in my journey. He continues to be a light in my life, and I hope to one day be able to spread that kindness to another student.

• What is your area of support in HHS?
  • As a member of the HHS Alumni Leadership Council, I have the opportunity to volunteer at fundraising & alumni events; I have served as the Secretary, Vice President, and the HHS representative/Ex-officio member of the UNCG Alumni Leadership Council. I have also guest lectured for multiple HHS courses; perhaps the opportunities I most enjoy are the ones where I get to sit down with current students to talk about my journey & where it got me. I have also become a big Spartan fan, and try to attend as many sporting events as possible – Let’s go G!

• Would you encourage others to get involved? If so, in what ways?
  • Absolutely! I would just encourage others to give back in ways they are most comfortable. While a full-time graduate student, I was not able to write big checks, so I tried to be present & actively involved in other ways. I do, however, encourage students and alumni to give what you can, monetarily. My advice is to give the amount equal to the year you graduated. So, members of the class of 2022 could pledge $20.22! That doesn’t seem like much, but imagine if every Spartan did it. Every little bit adds up!

Interview credit: Stella Pingitore