ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï

news-category: Juneteenth

ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Alumna Celebrates Accomplishments of Early Black Leaders

ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb alumna Tyra Montour, center, represented the Black Graduate Student Organization on a panel for Graduate Student Orientation at Texas A&M University in College Station.
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb alumna Tyra Montour, center, represented the Black Graduate Student Organization on a panel for Graduate Student Orientation at Texas A&M University in College Station.

Tyra Montour, ’16, Pursues Doctorate to Tackle Health Disparities and Advocate for Vulnerable Populations 

“The observance of Juneteenth is about the journey and achievement of African Americans—from a horrific period of sanctioned enslavement to the pinnacle of human endeavors. It is a story of pride, resilience and determination that will always be of historical and spiritual importance—as it serves us well to understand that together, we can overcome all obstacles in our path.� —

As a young Black American, Tyra Montour honors the history and accomplishments of early African Americans—who finally received the news of their freedom on June 19, 1865—the date now celebrated annually as Juneteenth. A 2016 GWU alumna, Montour received her bachelor’s degree in communication and media studies.

a banner with the word juneteenth in green, yellow and red
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb alumna Tyra Montour, center, represented the Black Graduate Student Organization on a panel for Graduate Student Orientation at Texas A&M University in College Station.

She is thankful for her rich heritage and the example of her ancestors. “I saw a post a few years ago that said, ‘It is important to celebrate Black people, those who have made a path out of their paths and brought their own seat to the table,’ and that stuck with me,â€� Montour stated. “Today, we can’t let that history get lost, it’s essential that we teach about the importance, impact, and contributions of Black history and culture on a national, global and local scale.â€�

While working for a public relations agency in Atlanta, Ga., Montour learned about issues related to public health, such as equity and disparities. She was so moved about what she discovered that she decided to go back to school. She was accepted into the Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) in Atlanta and earned her Master of Public Health.

Montour will complete her Ph.D. in health education in December 2023 at Texas A&M University in College Station. She is a graduate assistant in the Community Health Evaluation & Systems Science lab and the Transdisciplinary Center for Health Equity Research (TCHER pronounced TEACHER). The Center’s goal is to improve quality of life across the lifespan among at-risk populations globally.

“I am in my third year now, done with coursework, diving into more research and writing and expected to graduate in December 2023,� Montour noted. “Following graduation, I want to work in the public health industry as a health communications specialist and advocate for improving the lives and communications with vulnerable populations.�

Additional Juneteenth resources:

The Smithsonian: Juneteenth – .

Junteenth Foundation –

ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb.edu.

Previous News Article

Annual Observance of Juneteenth Focuses on Achievements of African Americans

Next News Article

ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Remembers Former Board of Trustees Member, Rodney Allison

Related News

  • News Article

    Memories, Friendships and a Spirit of Service Draw Alumni Back to ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb for Special Reunion

    Class of 1981 Marks 45th Reunion by Welcoming Alumni from Six ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Classes BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When members of ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb University’s Class of 1981 return to campus for a homecoming reunion in November, they will reconnect with longtime friends to celebrate the 45th anniversary of their graduation. The event began as a conversation between 1981 classmates […]

    collage
  • News Article

    ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Welcomes Alumni Home for Homecoming 2026

    Annual Celebration Features Class Reunions, Traditions, Athletics, and Opportunities to Reconnect BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“There’s just something special about coming home to ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb,â€� said Shannon Hovis, director of alumni and parent relations. “So many memories, so many friendships, and always a place to call home.â€� That sense of connection is at the heart of ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb University’s […]

    Homecoming Save the date Newscenter
  • News Article

    ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Alumnus Logan Simpson Named Director of the Bulldog Club

    Experienced Coach and Fundraiser to Lead Athletic Fundraising Efforts BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.â€”ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Vice President for Advancement Jeff Cogburn has named Logan Simpson director of the Bulldog Club. A GWU alumnus and accomplished coach, Simpson returns to his alma mater with fundraising experience and a passion for enhancing the student-athlete experience. Simpson joins the ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï-Webb Advancement […]

    Enthusiastic Crowd at Football Game -Bulldog club director DSC