9
SPARK SCL
JHANAE WILLIAMS, MARKETING AND
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER FOR CCLD
FINDING PURPOSE AND SUPP THROUGH CCLD AND THE MONARCH PANTRY
The Center for Career & Leadership Development( CCLD) and the Monarch Pantry are more than just campus resources— they are lifelines designed to help students succeed academically, personally, and professionally. From leadership development to food security, the Center for Career and Leadership Development ensures that Monarchs have the tools and support they need to thrive.
When Ismael Gil transferred to Old Dominion University, he wasn’ t just looking for a degree— he was searching for belonging, purpose, and a way forward. Like many first-generation college students, his journey was shaped by uncertainty and self-doubt. But at ODU, he found the support he needed to transform those doubts into confidence.
Through working in CCLD as an undergraduate student and utilizing its services, Ismael gained handson experience in leadership, career readiness, and service. From volunteering and helping run events to working directly with peers, he discovered his voice and his ability to make a difference.“ CCLD encouraged me to lead, and when I did, I realized I was capable of more than I imagined,” he reflected. The Monarch Pantry also played a meaningful role in his experience. By providing essential resources and volunteer opportunities, the Pantry gave him both the confidence
to move forward and a platform to give back.“ The Monarch Pantry showed me that asking for help isn’ t weakness— it’ s community. And in turn, I was able to help other students feel seen and supported.”
Ismael graduated in Spring 2025, but his story with ODU didn’ t end there. He now serves as a Graduate Assistant with the Monarch Pantry, where he is able to compound the support he once received by giving back to the Monarch community in even bigger ways. His work ensures that students not only have access to vital resources but also find the same sense of belonging that shaped his own journey.
His story is a testament to the purpose of CCLD and the Monarch Pantry: empowering students to persist, lead, and build community. As he put it best,“ When we say,‘ to the first, but definitely not the last,’ we’ re talking about more than degrees. We’ re talking about breaking cycles. About choosing purpose over survival. About opening the door so others don’ t have to knock as hard as we did.”
Looking back, Ismael is proud not only of what he accomplished, but of the person he became in the process.“ I’ m proud of the version of myself that ODU helped me become— prepared, empowered, and ready to light the way for the next first-gen student who needs a little support.”
“ Like many first-generation college s uncertainty and self-doubt.”– Ismael