Domanique Reed

Jacksonville State University

The only question that has driven Domanique Reed throughout her 24 years of life is: how can I make an impact on this world and be of service to others? This question has led her to various studies and ultimately to the decision of what she will do for the rest of her life. Growing up in a low-income, single parent household in Decatur, Ga., has always compelled Reed to cease every opportunity afforded to her. As a youth she attained several scholarly awards and was affiliated with various organizations, which she believes is the motivating factor in her hopes to make a difference.

Reed’s mother instilled in her at a young age that education is top priority, so going to college was a rule. However, deciding what area to study was not that easy, so, like many others, she entered undergraduate at Valdosta State University (VSU) undecided upon a major. In due course, Reed decided to pursue a Bachelors of Science in Biology and minor in Chemistry and Psychology. Her aspirations at that time were to continue with biology in hopes of conducting research on carcinogens.

It was at VSU where Reed’s passion for service was strengthened. Helping others became a primary focus in her life, pushing her to be a part of several organizations and complete various community service projects around the city of Valdosta. Reed sought employment as a resident assistant and peer mentor to help influence newer students. Upon graduating from VSU, Reed found employment with Emory University as a lab assistant in the Radiation Oncology department for the Winship Cancer Institute.

It was at this time that Hurricane Irene and the earthquake hit the east coast initiated a pursuit in volunteer work in disaster relief at the American Red Cross. This pursuit ultimately led Reed to return to school to study Public Administration with a concentration in Emergency Management at Jacksonville State University.“Everyday people are faced with natural or man-made hazards that threaten their safety and it is up to emergency management personnel to strategically develop a plan to protect them. Being at the beck-and-call of my community or, on a larger scale, the nation, during times of crisis is ideal for me,” she said.

At the suggestion of one of her professors, Reed was afforded an internship with SECoPA, and jumped at the opportunity. SECoPA nurtures students and professionals alike by providing academic and scholarly exchanges, tools to develop public administrative leaders, and network opportunities. Long-term, Reed’s objectives are to teach others the importance of service, to give those less fortunate a voice, and to advocate the implementation of policies that serve the greater good and not personal gains.