Leadership Role in an Academic Organization - Academic Enrichment (3 points) - Class of 2028

 

During my first year at Spelman College I was a general body member of Sister Chef, and as I begin my second year I will be taking on a leadership position as Research Lead for the 2025–2026 academic year. Sister Chef is a student-led organization that bridges culture, wellness, and community by exploring the intersections of food, sustainability, and health equity. In this role, I manage the research division responsible for compiling accurate cultural and nutritional data, supporting the creative direction of our campaigns, and ensuring that our deliverables align with both Spelman College’s mission and our organization’s values. 

One of the key insights I gained through this experience was understanding how multidisciplinary research functions in a creative community setting. I am learning how to merge academic rigor—through evidence-based writing and source evaluation—with cultural storytelling that resonates with real audiences while be engaging and memorable. This challenges my thinking by showing that research is not limited to the lab or library. I have learned that it can also live through art, food, and storytelling as methods of education and activism. Through delegating tasks and organizing research outcomes, I strengthened my ability to translate complex data into accessible content, a skill that is essential for both public health communication and scientific outreach. 

On a personal level, this role has deepening my leadership confidence and my commitment to collaborative scholarship. I’ve learned to balance academic precision with creativity, to trust others’ strengths, and to remain adaptable when projects evolve. Moving forward, I plan to apply these skills to larger public health initiatives and future community-based projects that merge science, equity, and culture.

By: Kandace N. Bryant