For many alumnae, Homecoming weekend means so much because it offers the chance to return to their beloved institutions to embrace the past and the future. Whether it be through reconnecting with old friends or encountering new little sisters, alumnae leave a mark on this community like no other.
As their 10-year reunion quickly approaches, the class of 2015 is gearing up for a year sentimental, and as Homecoming nears closer, alumnae have provided a fresh perspective on the place they will forever call home and how it has impacted their lives in immeasurable ways.
Dallas native Kara Washington serves as HR Business Partner with The Kraft Heinz Company. Although she studied Mathematics during her matriculation at Spelman, Washington built a successful career from her passion for empowering others.
From Chicago, Tayler Ulmer is an Ethnographer who works with Aescape to research the human experience with technology. She combines her passion for anthropology to unpack the intersectionality between robotics and humans.
When applying to colleges, what drew you to Spelman?
Washinton shared her first-hand experience witnessing and being a part of the intimacy of attending a small, all-girls institution.
“My gosh.. I wouldn’t say Spelman was my number one school, but when I visited campus, I was sold,” Washington said. “ It seems so cliche, but I definitely felt like I was at home when I first stepped on campus.”
Ulmer remained authentic about her Spelman journey. She initially committed to a different school, but quickly learned that it did not have her desired major. She decided to commit to Spelman, where they offered her a full-ride scholarship.
“I kind of just applied on a whim,” Ulmer said. “It all kind of worked out for the greater good. I definitely think God has a bigger plan for us. I was frustrated at first, but oh my God, I couldn’t imagine my life without Spelman.”
How do you think your work significantly impacts your community? In what ways do you think Spelman instilled the value of community engagement in you?
“I like to impact my community in this role by using my insider knowledge on how companies can approach talent, particularly for Black and Brown professionals. I try to be as transparent as possible about how Black professionals can continue to grow their careers despite all the obstacles in their way,” Washington said.
Washington was very open about the bad reputation HR professionals can get, but she brought her value of community to express how she wants the best for others. Spelman highlighted the importance of showing up in other ways beyond being a good student, and emphasized the value of ‘leaving things better than you found it’.
“I don’t just come to work and do my job, I am always stepping outside of my role,” Washington said.
In what ways do you think Spelman prepared you for life after college?
During Washinton’s first job with Boeing, she learned to navigate predominately white male spaces.
“It was definitely a transition, I’m not gonna lie. I was having a tough time because I left this space where I felt safe and protected,” Washington said. “Spelman taught me to be very confident in who I am and what I bring to the table and not to dim my light.”
Ulmer mentioned that many of the classes she took at Spelman taught her the importance of recognizing her value as a Black woman.
“It taught me the power of love, the power of sisterhood, the power of tradition, of being in the South, and the power of Morehouse Brothers and Clark Atlanta family,” Ulmer said.
What is the most valuable lesson you took away from Spelman?
Washington switched her major several times while at Spelman, even though she does not do anything related to her major in her field now.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is there’s not just one path,” Washington said. “Spelman taught me you can reinvent yourself, you can try things and pivot and do something else.”
What is your favorite Homecoming memory? What events do you look forward to now as an alumna?
As a member of the Mu Pi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Washington explains her involvement as it adds another layer of sisterhood.
“My favorite Homecoming memory is singing my hymn with my sorority sisters. I cry every time we sing the hymn,” Washington said.
While this will always be a cherished tradition for Kara, she also expressed her enjoyment of the Hip-Hop Concerts despite boo-ing Kendrick Lamar off the stage in 2011
“I wish I was still on campus because of all the concerts,” Washington said.
As part of the Miss Spelman Court, where she served as 1st Attendant, Ulmer recounts how the opportunity allowed her to viewHomecomingg through a new, more regal lens.
“Every year was a vibe, but senior year was definitely one to remember,” Ulmer said.
In one word, describe what Spelman means to you. And tell me why did you choose this word?
Washinton emphasized all of the experiences and relationships she gained because of Spelman.
“I would say transformative because I am a better person having gone to Spelman,” Washington said “I had scholarships to other schools, but I felt very strongly that this [Spelman] is where I was supposed to be.”
Ulmer: “That’s a hard one. Ancestral. Generational. There’s something so moving about the generations before us. 143 years of this institution, that’s so powerful…It’s bigger than you, but if you allow it, it will swallow you up in love.”
Advice for current students:
Ulmer: “Girl get someone else to pay for it. Travel the world. See the world. Really immerse yourself in different cultures and communities. Push yourself to be uncomfortable.”
Washington: “Be open to the experiences that life brings you. Flexibility and being open is the key to life especially as the world continues to change.”
