Before stepping foot on Spelman’s campus, Lauren Legardy knew she was destined for leadership, but she could not have predicted how far her journey would take her. Now a graduating senior with a major in economics and a minor in management organization, Legardy’s impact is a testament to her commitment to serving her community while uplifting her Spelman sisters. She holds true to her philosophy of timing and purpose in all her accomplishments.
“Everything happens for a reason. Timing is huge, and every person has their season in your life,” Legardy said
As president of Sisters Keeping It Real Through Service (S.K.I.R.T.S), she extends her impact beyond the gates of Spelman through various community service initiatives. These service endeavors help those in need while fostering meaningful connections within the Spelman Sisterhood. This Spring, Legardy spearheaded the S.K.I.R.T.S annual cupcake auction. The auction raised money for a newly founded scholarship that will aid Spelman students in paying for necessary expenses, such as books and parking.
Legardy also serves as the president of Future Business Leaders of Spelman (FBLS), leveraging her studies in economics and management organization to promote professional development and unparalleled success in her fellow Spelmanites. She uses her internship experience and securing full-time job opportunities to help guide members’ exploration of the business industry while creating a welcoming space for students from all majors.
“My impact comes from helping students figure out the different industries because there are not a lot of people at Spelman going into the supply chain,” Legardy said. “Students who are interested in law, medicine, or health care also know that they have a space in FBLS where they can find those opportunities along with us.”
This past summer, Legardy led FBLS to win first place in the Johns Hopkins Summer Business Academy Case Competition. FBLS attendees used their strategic thinking and knowledge to support a renowned healthcare organization. Nominators attributed her analytical prowess and problem-solving skills to their momentous victory. Legardy attributes her success to the mentorship and support she has received along the way. She recalls the pivotal guidance she received from Jillian Jackson and Taylor Moorer, both C’2022. Their poise, tenacity, and confidence shaped her leadership style while instilling a desire to serve as a big sister to other Spelmanites. Similarly, her love for the Spelman community and interactions with Spelmanites motivated her during stressful times.
“Seeing different Spelman sisters come up to me or me coming up to them, [and] having a conversation keeps me going each day,” Legardy said. “Hearing about what they have going on, and possibly being able to make a difference and like implementing something in my organization. That’s the kind of support [that] keeps me going.”
Legardy’s positive attitude and love for her Spelman sisters exemplify the spirit of a Spotlight Award: 25 for 25 honoree, highlighting Spelman students whose impact reaches far beyond the college’s gates. Grateful for this honor, Legardy feels genuinely appreciated by her Spelman sisters, whose support and sisterhood continue to inspire her journey.
“This award made it feel like I was seen, and they were able to see the impact that I was making. So, it warmed my heart to know that’s how my peers felt about me,” Legardy said.
Legardy hopes to leave a legacy of giving back and mentorship while spreading kindness and warmth to everyone she meets.
“I just want people to remember me for being a ray of sunshine, being able to give back, always being a helping hand, [and] being a big sister,” Legardy said.
After graduation, Legardy will serve as Supply Chain Operations Manager at Target, further demonstrating her hard work at Spelman. With ambitious goals and a bright future, she lives by her motto: “Move in silence. Protect my peace. Chase the bag.”
Without a doubt, Legardy’s leadership inspires Spelminites, present and future. Her influence on campus has strengthened Spelman’s legacy of excellence while uplifting the community she holds dear.
