To My Winthrop Curlies:

Former President of Collegiate Curls of Winthrop Chelsei James wrote a farewell letter to the members of Collegiate Curls of Winthrop and the organization as a whole! We wish her the best in her future endeavors!

To my Winthrop Curlies:

When I first thought of the idea of bringing a safe space for people like us to campus, I had no idea where I was going to start or how it would work out. I first presented the idea to a good friend of mine, Ray, who pointed me in the direction of Courtney’s Collegiate Curls organization. After doing my research on the organization, I realized it was aligned with what I envisioned for our campus. I submitted an application to charter, and from there, the wheels were set in motion. Never did I imagine that Collegiate Curls would immediately gain so much support so quickly on our campus. I am so appreciative for the growth of our organization at Winthrop’s Campus within a single year. We have a membership of over 50 members who are both beautiful inside and out.

Of course, it saddens me that I must now leave you guys. As a December 2018 Graduate, my time at Winthrop is now complete. However, our organization is in great hands. We have an amazing executive board that is passionate about everything we stand for. We have a new President, Jai’lyn Lowe, and a new Vice President, Jada Givens, who will help continue our legacy on campus. Plus, we have YOU, the amazing members who have big ideas on what we can bring to campus.

As you all enter into the new year, I challenge you all to push yourself to new heights within the organization. Make your voices heard and advocate for the changes you would like to see in 2019. Reach outside your comfort zones and take a risk because the reward could be more than you could ever imagine. For me, the reward was establishing an organization that allowed me to interact with all of your amazing spirits. For you, the reward could be even greater! So take charge and go after your dreams this year. I am rooting for you!

Sincerely,

Chelsei

P.S. Thank you all for helping make Winthrop bold, brown, beautiful, and a place where we all belong <3