Ariel Knight, CF-SLP
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Inaugural Kennard Scholar |
What type of career have you pursued and want to achieve in the future?
I gained experience working with children of all ages, performing hearing screenings and providing therapy on an individual and small-group basis. Through my experience and educational foundation, I learned various ways to help educate parents of children with communication and behavior disorders. I have served children with developmental disorders and behavioral challenges which inspired me to complete a MEd in applied behavior analysis from Arizona State University in 2019. Recently, I earned an MS in speech language pathology from Francis Marion University. I am now dedicated to serving the children of Mississippi while working for The Center of Advancement of Youth, MS Thrive! at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
How did receiving the Clyde Kennard scholarship impact you?
It was an honor to be a part of the Clyde Kennard Scholars Program. It was more than a scholarship; it was honoring his dream. His story inspired me to chase my academic pursuits despite the statistics! We have come so far; however, today we continue to fight for a seat at the table.
I am proud to honor and walk in his legacy daily by representing the 8% of minorities in the field of speech-language pathology.
How do/did your academic pursuits or journey honor Kennard’s legacy?
As I reflect, I remember being in tears every semester because of challenges, whether academically, financially, or just a lack of support in my department. The Kennard Scholars program introduced me to a community of like-minded students and faculty that supported me as I strived to graduate. I am proud to honor and walk in his legacy daily by representing the 8% of minorities in the field of speech-language pathology.
➤ To comment on this spring 2021 article, visit the Center for Black Studies on Facebook.
➤ To give and support the Kennard Scholars, visit the USM Foundation.
