Employee Profile: Benjamin Cowman
Director of Student Life

Where did you grow up, and what was it like?

I grew up in Carroll County, Maryland just about an hour outside of Baltimore. Growing up I enjoyed the outdoors/camping and spending time with family. 

Tell us about your background. What were you doing before coming to Reynolds?

Before coming to Reynolds, I worked at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore. I oversaw our student and family orientation, peer mentors, and the first year experience. 

How did you get started working in the area of Student Life and Leadership?

My path into this field was a result of my own college experience and involvement. I served in student government as an undergraduate, and became passionate about helping others make a difference and develop their own leadership potential.

What do you like most about working with students? 

I most enjoy being able to see students’ growth, and see how the programs/activities we offer have an positive impact on their lives. 

What is the most challenging aspect of your work?

The most challenging aspect of the work is finding new ways to engage students who already juggling other priorities outside of class. 

What is your favorite book, movie, or TV series?

I am a Game of Thrones fan, and so I’m excited to the newly released House of Dragons series.

What is your favorite food or restaurant in Richmond?

My favorite RVA restaurant is the Can Can in Carytown. 

If you won $100 million in the lottery what would you do with your money?

I would pay off debt, travel the world, and give back to organizations trying to solve the world’s toughest problems (i.e., poverty, climate change). 

 

The Push was Worth It - Student Profile

 The push was worth it.

When I asked the spring 2022 graduates to tell me about their time at Reynolds, Tia Smith responded immediately and sent photos. 

I’d never met Tia, but I recognized her from the Commencement slideshow. She was the graduate with the widest, brightest smile. She was beaming. After reading her story I understood why she was smiling and why the Subject line in her email was: The push was worth it.

Virtually every student I profile is confronted with issues - some issues linger from their past, other issues jockey to control their present – all entangle their hearts and minds and have the potential to dim their vision of their future. I am always struck by the tenacity of their journeys. Tia was no exception. Here is her story in her own words.

My name is Tyquila "Tia" Smith and my journey started back in 2009. I overcame so much from having to go to Philadelphia when my mother needed an emergency surgery, to giving birth to our first son in 2012 and having to take off to raise him, to finally making the decision to keep going even when, at the beginning of the semester two aunts passed from cancer three weeks apart. I was being my father's caretaker. Then I found out I was pregnant again after 10 years since our first son in 2012. I had to deal with changes with our baby girl having struggles, to even being on bed rest. 

That’s why the message is meaningful: "This push was worth it".

My professor Dr. James Wolfe was a big help and motivated me to keep pushing when I wanted to give up. He offered to extend my assignments to help me finish while I went in delivery on April 16, 2022 just before my graduation. For three days pre labor to active labor to dealing with anxiety during labor and so much more. I feel I can write a book on child birth, lol. I’m now a mother of five beautiful children. And, I FINALLY FINISHED WHAT I STARTED BACK IN 2009.

Reynolds professors were so understanding throughout my journey and gave me a family friendly atmosphere. They’re always motivating their students. It's not how you started but how you endure to finish in the end.

I want to thank every professor at Reynolds for always being there for their students and going the extra mile to help. My experiences at Reynolds Community College I shall never forget. Reynolds definitely has a community atmosphere for all to attend.

I will continue my studies in Business Administration at a four year college.  I’m looking to attend in spring of 2023 until my newborn gets up in age. Going all the way!

On to the next adventure to bachelor adventure to Master the journey. -Tia Smith

Thank you, Tia, for sharing your story. The very best of wishes for you as you continue your journey.