Alumni Profiles

Hanna Watson

Campus: UNC
Hometown: Wichita, KS
High School: Andover High School

Academic Interests: Major: African American & Diaspora Studies; Minor: Creative Writing (Poetry Composition); Other Academic Interests: applied theologies of reconciliation and creativity, public policy, African-American religious history

Extracurriculars / Hobbies: Every Nation Campus Ministry, Communiversity Youth Program, Spoken word poetry performance, music composition

What drew you to the Robertson Program? When I applied to the Robertson Program, I was most intrigued by the enhancing summer opportunities. However, it was the Program’s appreciable dedication to fostering collaborative, innovative, and lasting leadership that made it clear that this was the place for me.

How has your experience with the Robertson Program shaped your goals and career path? My summer experiences in Tarboro, NC (where I taught with CDF Freedom Schools) and Richmond, VA (where I created in the Urban Doxology Songwriting Internship) exposed me to organizations and individuals who helped me uncover a career trajectory I previously thought too lofty to follow: Christian ministry through poetry composition and performance. Without the opportunities afforded by the Robertson Program, I would not have been able to see how my broader interests of social justice and racial reconciliation could collide with my passions in poetry and oration to facilitate life-altering encounters for individuals and communities.

Favorite Robertson moment: My favorite Robertson moment was the sophomore retreat at the Marbles Kid’s Museum. This rather silly and exciting “Night at the Museum” fostered community and provided a much-needed respite in the middle of midterm season that I am doubtful I would have taken if it wasn’t mandatory.

Watson, Hanna UNC