Graduate Student Association

As president of the Graduate Student Association (GSA) here at North Carolina Central University, I am honored to welcome you to our vibrant community of scholars and leaders. The GSA exists to serve as the collective voice of graduate students, advocating for your needs, interests, and opportunities both on campus and beyond. Our mission is to enhance the graduate experience by fostering collaboration, promoting professional development, and ensuring that every student feels supported and empowered throughout their academic journey.

The strength of GSA lies in its members and dedicated officers who work tirelessly to create meaningful programs, events, and initiatives designed to support your success. Whether through networking opportunities, leadership development, or community engagement, our goal is to provide you with the resources and connections you need to thrive. We are excited to stand alongside you during your time at NCCU and look forward to building a strong, united graduate community together.

In Truth and Service,

Cameron L. Shaw 

The GSA is the student governing body for all graduate students. All GSA officers are current graduate students, so no one is better suited to serve you and your interest. We are your voice, your advocate!

Some of the many services the GSA provides are:

• representation on various committees/boards that make decisions that directly impact you, the student;
• social events designed to connect you with your peers, alumni and the campus community;
• networking opportunities;
• a direct connection to the associate provost and dean for the School of Graduate Studies;
• computers for use in completing assignments directly related to your academic success;
• access to funds to assist you with conference-related travel expenses.

Cameron Shaw is a professional with experience in policy development, human resources (HR) process improvement, and legal operations management. He has worked with senior leadership, attorneys, and cross-functional teams to streamline workflows, strengthen compliance, and align strategy with measurable impact.

Cameron holds a Master’s in Public Administration from North Carolina Central University, where he specialized in Law and Society, and he is currently pursuing an M.B.A. with a concentration in Data Analytics. His academic and professional background reflects his commitment to bridging policy, operations, and strategy to deliver meaningful outcomes.

Ilana Adlee comes from Wendell, NC. She earned her bachelor's degree from UNC Asheville in Arts Management and Entrepreneurship, with a concentration in Theatrical Arts. She is currently at NCCU pursuing a Master's of Science in Higher Education Administration. 

As the vice president of student advocacy and affairs, Ilana aims to connect students with resources and opportunities that will advance their graduate experience. With a strong background in accessibility work, she will serve as a great champion on the GSA team. 

Outside of campus, Ilana is the volunteer director of youth outreach and advocacy development for the American Heart Association's State Advocacy Committee. She is very passionate about how advocacy for intersectional identities and experiences can foster more inclusion within black and African diasporic communities. She is driven and committed to bridging access gaps and tearing down knowledge barriers. 

In her spare time, Ilana enjoys dancing, creating art of various mediums and spending time with her loved ones. 

Lauren Clark is a second-year graduate student working on her master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. She previously attended North Carolina State University, where she received her B.A. in English with a concentration in Linguistics. She is passionate about all modes of communication, enjoys working with clients across the lifespan, and is working toward becoming a speech language pathologist to help others improve not only their speech, but also their confidence, independence, and overall quality of life.

Yannick Elima is a Ph.D. student in Integrated Science with a concentration in Pharmaceutical Science. Inspired by Matthew 17:20, his research centers on small molecule drug synthesis aimed at developing safer and more affordable treatments for neglected tropical diseases. His long-term vision is to establish a pharmaceutical company dedicated not only to advancing healthcare but also to improving clean water access across Africa.

Wisdom Asaboro is a Nigerian-born scholar and community advocate currently based in North Carolina. He holds degrees in African and African American Diaspora Studies, Business Administration, and Statistical Analysis from UNC Chapel Hill, as well as an Interdisciplinary Studies degree from NCCU. He is pursuing a double Master’s in Public Administration and Information Science while preparing for doctoral studies in Public Policy.

Le’Monna is a first-year graduate student in Criminal Justice with research interests in representation of Black women scholars at HBCUs, law enforcement-community relations, and juvenile justice. Her work has included geographic information system (GIS) analysis of motor vehicle thefts, research on Creole culture in Belize, and projects addressing equity in education and justice systems. Her career goals include pursuing a Ph.D., becoming a professor and researcher, and creating opportunities for Black women in academia while shaping national conversations on justice reform.

We are excited to announce the Graduate Student Lounge will be in full operation this year!

Are you a graduate student searching for a cozy and inclusive space to relax, study, collaborate or engage with fellow students? Our Graduate Student Lounge has been specifically tailored to meet your needs!

Discover what our Graduate Student Lounge has in store for you:

• Comfortable seating areas for unwinding and taking a break from your studies
• Ample study spaces with convenient power outlets for all your electronic devices
• Access to public computers for your research and academic needs
• High-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected and productive
• Designated cubicle spaces for individual meetings or a quiet zone
• Meeting room available for group discussions and collaborative projects
• Access to refrigeration for storing your snacks and meals during long study sessions

We understand the varying schedules of graduate students, so we offer flexible visiting hours to cater to your needs. The Graduate Student Lounge is open during the following times:

GSA Office Lounge: Taylor Education 311

• Sunday: Closed
• Monday: 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Tuesday: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
• Wednesday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Thursday: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
• Friday: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
• Saturday: Closed

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Please note that visiting hours may be subject to changes during holidays and academic breaks. Stay updated by visiting our website for the latest information and announcements.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful space for independent study, a hub for collaborating with peers, or a spot to recharge and unwind, the Graduate Student Lounge is here to support you throughout your academic journey.

Pay us a visit today and experience firsthand the benefits of our Graduate Student Lounge.

919-530-6126

919-530-6719