Photograph above by Jairus Davis
Giving matters: First generation CEHD alum Josie Antwiwaa (BS ’26) supported by The Fund for Excellence in Education, TRIO
In Josie Antwiwaa’s junior year of high school, the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height, and the whole world seemed at a virtual standstill. Despite the circumstances, Antwiwaa felt the need to seek a college experience and major that would allow her to make an impact in her community. CEHD’s business and marketing education major caught her attention. “It appealed to me because of its focus on people,” she says. “This concept was honestly new to me, as I had assumed business primarily focused on numbers and not the community. It opened my eyes to many possibilities of using a business marketing degree.”
Now a recent CEHD and first-generation college graduate (BS ’26), Antwiwaa’s main focus is to build real-world experience in business, marketing, and possibly design. “Once I’ve grown professionally, I plan to pursue a master’s degree to expand my knowledge,” she says.
Antwiwaa’s college experience was enhanced by The Fund for Excellence in Education. This flexible fund allows CEHD to invest in its most important priorities, fostering innovation and ensuring the college can respond to new opportunities as they arise. “Knowing that it’s there provides a safety net during this stage between graduating and job search,” she says. “I’m grateful for that security and plan to use it thoughtfully when the right time comes.”
Another enhancement came from Antwiwaa’s involvement in the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program. TRIO SSS is a federally funded educational opportunity program that engages and supports undergraduate students from disadvantaged backgrounds to persist and succeed in their academic endeavors. It is one of three TRIO programs housed in CEHD. Others include McNair Scholars for undergraduates seeking a graduate degree and Upward Bound for high school students interested in a college pathway.
“TRIO SSS has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my college journey,” Antwiwaa says. “Working as a communication assistant and president of the TRIO student board extended my role beyond completing tasks. It has allowed me to empower others, improve student engagement, and prepared me for the professional world.”
To the benefactors behind Antwiwaa’s journey, she has nothing but gratitude. “Thank you, not just for the financial support, but also for the belief behind it,” she says.