Student Spotlight: Olivia Washington
Olivia Washington is a Montgomery County Ohio College Promise Scholar. Olivia graduated from Dixie High School in 2019. She then graduated from Wittenberg University with her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education.
Speaking about her time in the program, Olivia shared how having a mentor was transformational. She said, “College Promise saw my potential to succeed and provided me with a mentor. My mentor, Carol MacMann, was someone who inspired me to think bigger. She provided me with my first job at the Dayton Metro Library in New Lebanon and gave me guidance in the everyday situations I was facing.”
During her time at Wittenberg, Olivia enjoyed the community of people surrounding her, especially her professors who were “inspirational and accommodating.” While in college, she also took part in an all-female a capella group called Just Eve, which was “really fun!”
Currently, Olivia works at Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley as a Match Support Specialist. She intends to develop professionally in her current role, using the skills that she gained in her undergraduate experience.
Olivia shared that she aspires to be like her grandmother, who saw the value in giving back to her community and helping people in need. Carrying that vision forward, she said, “I love being that light at the end of the tunnel for a person who needs a listening ear or a helping hand.” Like some key figures did for her, Olivia is truly making a difference in the lives of others.