2024 Great Grads: LaChunda Hunter

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LaChunda Hunter, a Petersburg, Va. native living in Charlotte, N.C., faced wave upon wave of uncertainty when she decided to return to school for the first time since 1996. As a divorced, 42-year-old, single mother of two, Hunter felt the pull to further her career by pursuing her undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a minor in Management at Johnson C. Smith University.

“What initially drew me to Johnson C. Smith University was the inspiring example set by my older sister and younger nephew, both proud graduates of this esteemed institution,” said Hunter. “What initially began as a personal endeavor for myself evolved into something much greater. Knowing that now my actions were being observed by my son fueled my determination to persevere and succeed, instilling in me a sense of responsibility and purpose beyond my own aspirations.”

Hunter’s hard work at JCSU resulted in membership into the Delta Mu Delta International Business, Alpha Sigma Lambda, Alpha Lambda Delta, and Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Societies. She has also proudly served as the alumni liaison for the Golden Bull Adult Success Organization (GBASO), all while maintaining a spot on the Dean’s List.

Additionally, JCSU gave Hunter the opportunity to attend her first collegiate basketball game alongside her 15-year-old son Obrian and 4-year-old daughter Eryah. She said one of her proudest moments was advocating the election of the first ever non-traditional Miss JCSU-elect, Jessica McDonald ’25.

“As I prepare to leave Johnson C. Smith University, I find myself experiencing a mix of emotions,” said Hunter. “While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m excited to embark on the next chapter of my academic journey at Elon University of Law with the goal of becoming a lawyer.”

Hunter credits God for the strength she found to navigate the past four years. She also says she is grateful to her children; her family and close friends; her GBASO family; and several JCSU faculty and staff members, including Dr. Lucinda Blue, Dr. Vanessa Figgers, Damon Miller, Dr. Melita Pope Mitchell and Dr. Davida Haywood.

“What I’ve gleaned both inside and outside the classroom is the profound truth behind the saying ‘it takes a village,’” said Hunter. “We all need a support system at some point along our journey. My support system has been nothing short of amazing during my time here at JCSU.”