Angela, a Lincoln University alumna, recently shared her incredible journey from Brooklyn to an international career, thanks in large part to a pivotal experience at Lincoln. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and how one professor's belief in Angela's potential opened up a world of opportunities that would define her career.
Angela grew up in Brooklyn, the daughter of immigrants from Trinidad and Tobago. In the 1980s, without the internet and with limited resources, her family faced many challenges. A close family friend suggested Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, so she found herself there in January 1982.
Angela's high school in New York had a strong foreign language program, and she excelled in French and Spanish, earning a New York State Regents diploma. However, upon arriving at Lincoln, she decided to drop French, believing it would not be helpful in her future. Dr. Joseph Rogers, the linguistics department chair, soon challenged this decision.
After noticing her Regents diploma, Dr. Rogers, a pivotal figure in Angela's journey, called Angela to his office and questioned her decision. He passionately explained the value of foreign languages and offered her a scholarship to study French in France on the condition that she re-enroll in the French program at Lincoln. Hesitant but intrigued, Angela agreed.
In May 1983, Angela embarked on a life-changing trip to the south of France to study at a private language school. The experience was both exhilarating and daunting. She was the first African American her host family had met, and while her French was good, it wasn’t yet fluent. However, the immersion and the challenges she faced, such as adapting to a new culture and language, helped her realize her potential and adaptability.
Angela's time in France extended beyond the initial semester. She attended La Sorbonne and immersed herself in French culture and language. This experience improved her French, broadened her worldview, and introduced her to diverse cultures and perspectives.
Returning to Lincoln, Angela became a teaching assistant for Dr. Rogers and an advocate for the foreign language program. Her proficiency in French opened numerous doors throughout her career. She worked in international development, including participating in disaster relief efforts in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake, leveraging her language skills to navigate complex environments and facilitate communication.
Angela's international experience and linguistic skills culminated in her creation of Diverse Dev, her own consultancy. Her company focuses on integrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles into international organizations. She works with global entities, particularly in West Africa, helping them strategize and implement DEI initiatives.
Reflecting on her journey, Angela emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing new experiences. Her advice to current and prospective Lincoln students is to 'find your tribe'—a supportive community that encourages growth and exploration. It was the same advice that she gave to her son Zidane when she encouraged him to apply to Lincoln back in 2021. As she watched her son graduate from her alma mater in the Class of 2024, Angela's story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the value of being open to unexpected opportunities.
Angela's story is a powerful example of how one decision and one mentor can change the trajectory of a life. From Brooklyn to Paris and now running a boutique consultancy, Angela credits much of her success to the opportunities and guidance she received at Lincoln University. Her journey underscores the lasting impact of education and the importance of mentors and people who see you and who see what you could be. Angela says often that Lincoln prepared her for the world.
