Claflin student leader steps into national role with UNCF

Ky’Seanna N. Rowe

Claflin University junior Ky’Seanna N. Rowe is continuing to expand her impact beyond campus by being named vice president of the United Negro College Fund’s National Pre-Alumni Council.

Rowe, a biology major with a minor in chemistry from Orangeburg, currently serves as president of the Claflin Pre-Alumni Council while also representing the Eastern region at the national level. Her journey into leadership began during her freshman year after attending an organizational fair.

“I didn’t know what the pre-alumni council was at first,” Rowe said. “But the passion, professionalism and spirit of the members drew me in. Once I learned more, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”

After joining the organization, Rowe quickly stepped into leadership, serving as secretary before advancing to president. Now, as vice president-elect of the UNCF National Pre-Alumni Council, she is preparing to take on a broader role that impacts students across 37 UNCF member institutions.

In her national position, Rowe will help oversee regional representatives and lead a large-scale service initiative. She plans to focus on giving back to underserved communities through initiatives such as clothing drives, literacy programs or educational outreach.

“My goal is to increase engagement and make sure students are connected,” she said. “I want them to understand the opportunities available through UNCF and how to take full advantage of them.”

Rowe emphasized the importance of building strong relationships between students and alumni, noting that those connections can open doors to internships, mentorship and career advancement.

“Connecting with alumni can create opportunities you may not have even imagined for yourself,” she said. “It helps students navigate their paths and prepares them for life beyond college.”

Through her leadership experiences, Rowe has developed a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with intention.

“Leadership has taught me that it’s not about being at the forefront all the time,” she said. “It’s about serving others and creating space for those around you to grow and shine.”

She credits Claflin University for helping shape her leadership style, pointing to mentorship from faculty, involvement in the Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College, and support from advisers like Veronica Cohen.

“Claflin has poured so much into me,” Rowe said. “That makes me want to give back even more and help other students succeed.”

For students interested in leadership, Rowe encourages them to take initiative and not be discouraged by fear or failure.

“Start small and go for it anyway,” she said. “All great leaders had to take that first step. Growth comes from trying.”

As she prepares to begin her national role, Rowe summed up what the opportunity means to her in one word:

“Change.”