Former student association president, presidential awardee Provost reflects on La Sierra journey

On June 15, Provost graduated with a B.A. in Sociology and History and also received the President’s Award for Outstanding University Undergraduate Student from La Sierra University President Christon Arthur. The award recognized her leadership in strengthening the La Sierra campus through the “Building Better Community” initiative designed to unite students, faculty and staff toward creating a vibrant culture, and her many service contributions with on and off-campus groups. These include her work with the Pre-Law Club and efforts with Goodwill of Southern California in developing curricula for an incarceration re-entry program.

Noted faculty advisor Dr. Andrew Howe, “She has all the qualities necessary for becoming an impactful leader in whatever professional and civic communities she ends up inhabiting, and will no doubt make La Sierra proud that she is one of our alums.”

Below, Provost reflects on the ways her experiences at La Sierra have shaped her perspectives and strengthened her values, and offers advice based on her experiences to students arriving to study at the university.

Q: Where are you from and why did you choose to enroll at La Sierra?

A: It might surprise some people to learn that I’m not from California—I’m actually a proudsoutherner from Georgia. I chose to come to La Sierra because I was eager to challenge myselfand try something new. Now that I’m graduating, I can confidently say I met that challenge. Butlooking back, I realize that this journey was so much more than just a test of my abilities. It wasa step toward my purpose, a chapter of my life I unknowingly began. Choosing La Sierra hasbeen one of the best decisions I’ve made. The experiences and growth I’ve gone through herehave shaped me in ways I never imagined, and I can honestly say I’m leaving as a betterperson than when I arrived.

Q: Why did you want to be S A L S U president, and how did you prepare for the role?

A: I never planned on becoming the S A L S U President. In fact, I didn’t even intend to run. But when the opportunity came up, I saw it as something I couldn’t pass on. Like anything I commit to, I threw myself fully into the role. I spent time researching the experiences of other StudentAssociation presidents and reflected on how I could improve student life at La Sierra. I alsoconsidered how I could help our institution grow, not just through policies, but by fostering agreater sense of community.

Q: What were S A L S U’s most important achievements in your view?

A: One of our biggest achievements was bridging the gap between students and campusleadership. Our team worked tirelessly to create spaces where students, faculty, and staff couldconnect outside the classroom. We also focused on building a sense of shared governance andcommunity, making sure every member of our campus felt supported and valued, both in theiracademic journey and in their experience as part of this institution.

Q: What was the impetus for the Unity Night worships, and why were they important?

A: Unity Night was an idea I collaborated on with Spiritual Life. It began as a conversation with President Arthur about how we could cultivate a deeper sense of belonging on campus. What better way to do that than through worship and fellowship? The events turned out to beincredibly special, offering a space for our campus community to pause, reflect, and celebratewhat makes La Sierra great—our reflection of the body of Christ. The worship was particularlypowerful; from heartfelt student testimonies to the amazing music, the energy in the room wasnothing short of overwhelming. I’m proud to have helped create Unity Night, and I truly hope itbecomes a lasting tradition at La Sierra.

Q: From whom do you derive your values and work ethic, and who have been your primary influences?

A: Much of my work ethic and values come from my grandfather, who was the most selfless person I’ve ever known. I grew up watching him give everything to others, and after he passed away in 2022 from Covid-19, I made a promise to myself to live my life as he did. My faith is also a major influence on how I approach work. People often say I have an incredible work ethic or that I must be exhausted from all the things I juggle. While it does get overwhelming at times, for me, that feeling is not negative. I find fulfillment and peace in it.

I was recently able to reflect on this with former President Dr. Larry Geraty, who shared his perspective on leadership in higher education. Dr. Geraty described how serving others in this field is a way of co-creating with Christ, striving for success while reflecting the joy and love of God in our work. This philosophy really changed how I view service, and I now approach each day as an opportunity to better my community and the world, all while living a life of purpose.

Q: What advice do you have for students entering college?

A: My biggest piece of advice is to never take your community for granted. The most valuableresource I had throughout my time at La Sierra was the support system I built—friends,professors, mentors. Their encouragement and guidance were pivotal to my success. Surroundyourself with people who lift you up, and never hesitate to seek help when you need it.

Q: How would you characterize your La Sierra experience?

A: My time at La Sierra has been nothing short of incredible. The relationships, the community, and the growth I’ve experienced here have truly transformed my life. I am beyond grateful foreverything I’ve gained, not just academically, but personally and spiritually as well. On top ofthat, the education I’ve received has set me up for a bright future, and I feel prepared tocontinue on the path of discovering my true purpose in life.