As a returning student, Shanta’l Overton appreciates and values her college education, working tirelessly to take advantage of the opportunities presented to her.
“When I fail at something, I dont quit. I step out on faith, dust myself off and try it until I perfect it. I am too proactive to give up,” she says.
She made history at UM-Dearborn as a member of the campus’s first inducted class of Sigma Alpha Pi, the national society of leadership and success. She also received the organization’s National Excellence in Leadership Award, which is bestowed upon members who go above and beyond the steps for membership. “This was my first time making history. I do not intend on it being my last,” she says.
Shanta'l was the President and Program Planner of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Delta Psi Chapter., a challenging role given that the chapter is city-wide, encompassing UM-Dearborn, University of Detroit Mercy, Marygrove College and Lawrence Technological University.
An alumna of the UM-Dearborn’s Blueprints leadership program, Shanta’l made lasting connections with faculty and staff and hasn’t looked back. She is a “go-to” person when university staff need a student to sit on a committee, or represent the student voice at an event.
Shanta’l credits the support of her family and friends with always being there to keep her on the right track. “I have family that is my cheer team. My family is important to me because we are very close,” she says.
IN MY OWN WORDS
"What drives my mind, body and soul, on my most challenging days? The days when I feel burnt out or feel like giving up, I look into the mirror. Once I gaze into the mirror and realize that I am not where I want to be, but I'm not where I use to be. I slowly focus in the mirror and see a flower that has a second chance to bloom once the storm is over. So once I realize this, I hold my head up high and strive with confidence. My challenging days now becomes my, THANK YOU DAYS!!!"