Dawn Angelique Roberts is an award-winning communications professional with over 20 years’ experience. As the Director of Media Relations and Communications for Elite Access Running, LLC and volunteer endurance running coach for the American Cancer Society, Determine Nation program, Dawn runs and coaches beginning and experienced runners to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
Dawn serves as a health and wellness advocate, media relations specialist, social media strategist, special events consultant, race director, and USA Track & Field Coach. Dawn is committed to helping youth and adults live healthy, active lives.
In a brief interview recently, Dawn had this to say to FunTimes:
What does HBCU mean to you and how has your experience impacted what you do in the community?
I am very proud to be a graduate of an HBCU. They offer me and African American students like me an opportunity to continue their education while forming lifelong friendships and relationships with students, professors and administrators in a caring environment. HBCUs prepare us for the world of business and entrepreneurship. I received a track scholarship to attend Virginia State University (VSU) in Petersburg, VA. It was at VSU that I was introduced to the rich history of sororities and fraternities. After one year at VSU, I transferred to Delaware State College now University in Dover, DE, closer to home on a track scholarship and served as Miss Delaware State College (DSC) from 1991 – 1992. My experience as Miss DSC was my first introduction to working in the community. I had an opportunity to represent DSC on and off campus by serving as a leader and mentor.
I am also proud to share that I became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 1991.On our campus, Delta’s were known for leadership and community service. When I look back at my wonderful years at DSC, I realize what a blessing I received. It was there that I met life-long friends and sorority sisters. I learned about entrepreneurship, business, leadership and community service hands-on.
DSC gave me the opportunity to serve on the board of the Student Government
Association in my role as campus queen. I served as sports editor and editor-in-chief of my college newspaper. Thanks to DSU, I am living a life of service; I am passionate about my work in the community. Working with young people and inspiring people in the community to get healthy and to realize that health is wealth started early during my years at DSU.
How can the lot of HBCUs be better?
HBCUs can continue to flourish by reaching back to alumni of all ages for mentorship, financial assistance and overall leadership. Asking alumni to serve as board members, share their experiences and their stories about what they received as a result of attending an HBCU can carry a lot of weight as it relates to recruitment and financial stability.
