Randolph-Macon College hosted its second-annual Legacy of Success event on February 23, 2019 in Birdsong Hall. Legacy of Success was created to build a connection between African American alumni and current African American students.

At the gathering, student-leaders from the Diversity Council, Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Black Cultural Society, Men with a Purpose, and Subject Never Object updated alumni and guests about these campus organizations and shared their perspectives of campus life. Alumni then shared stories about what made their college experiences successful and offered advice for making the most of life at RMC.

A Profound Impact
Alicia Elms, coordinator of Diversity & Multicultural Affairs, notes that last year’s Legacy of Success event had a profound impact on the students in attendance.

“It made such a positive impression on students that we decided to host a larger iteration this year,” says Elms. “There were 50 students, alumni and guests in attendance. This event was one of many we plan in helping to bridge the connection between alumni and students.”

Shared Experiences + a Caring Community
Cydnie Brown ’20 (business major; religious studies minor) enjoyed networking with alumni.

“They talked about the importance of the bonds they formed with faculty and staff members, some of whom are now part of my support system,” says Brown, an admissions tour guide and member of the Diversity Council and the Black Cultural Society. “It was a joy to be in the same room with alumni who laid the foundation for me and other people of color. Randolph-Macon has the most caring community.” Brown also serves as an ambassador for the EDGE Career Center, and as president of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Jacoby Freeman ’19 (communication studies major) says, “It was great to hear alumni who look like me talk about their experiences. As a first-generation college student, it was good to hear from those who came before me.”

A member of the Black Cultural Society, Diversity Council, Student Government Association, Commons Activities Board, Thrive Peer to Peer Success Program, and Men with a Purpose, Freeman makes community service a priority.

“Whether I am in a meeting or participating in philanthropic events, I am able to selflessly do for others,” he says. “Being involved on campus enriches my life because I enjoy making the spaces that I occupy more inclusive and comfortable for all.”

Chad Burns ’98, project management office manager at the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, was impressed by the students’ desire to engage with alumni.

“RMC provided a foundation for learning leadership and communication skills,” says Burns, who told students that they should not be discouraged if their career paths evolve differently than planned. “I majored in accounting and business economics and planned on being a CPA. I had an opportunity to run a six-sigma green belt project—a methodology used to improve business processes—when I worked as an auditor. But I decided I wanted to become a project manager. I’ve been managing various types of projects and other project managers for 13 years.”

Tameshia Grimes ’96 enjoyed connecting with current students and reconnecting with alumni, faculty and staff. Her advice to students?

“Take advantage of the opportunities RMC offers to not only be involved but also to have leadership roles, to continue to support each other, and to use failures and disappointments as learning opportunities for growth,” says Grimes, director of Equity and Student Support Services, Chesterfield County Public Schools.