Student Stories: Tia Herriott
A Virginia Union University Grad with Political Science Aspirations
UNCF is proud of current students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate from university. These scholarships are invaluable to students. We are always accepting donations to support students like Tia in their academic endeavors. Donate today, and read on to learn about one scholar’s journey.
Tia Herriott, a 2024 graduate of Virginia Union University, one of UNCF’s member HBCUs, received UNCF’s Duquesne Light Endowed Fund scholarship. The scholarship, which offers financial assistance to students who are residents of Allegheny and Beaver counties, PA, is provided by Duquesne Light Company, which delivers electric service to over 600,000 customers in southwestern PA. It is available for underclassmen at UNCF colleges and universities with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
“My scholarship from UNCF has impacted my education and helped me release a ton of stress,” Herriott said. “Most college kids need help finding funds to pay for university. This relieved a huge weight off of my shoulders and my mom’s shoulders.”
Receiving the scholarship gave her more time to focus on her studies and prepare for graduation.
“It feels scary to be a college graduate because you don’t know what direction your life is headed in next,” Herriott said. “However, I will always be optimistic about life and my future goals!”
At Virginia Union University (VUU), Herriott not only engaged in the Student Government Association (SGA) but also worked with Virginia State Del. Nadarius Clark in the Virginia State Capitol. She reviewed constituent emails (Del. Clark receives over 200 a day) and supported Clark, as well as the chief of staff and the legislative aid with tracking bills.
“Working with Del. Clark was challenging, but worth it,” she said. “I had to wake up two hours before my shift to ensure I caught the bus to go to work. I kept track of his bills and what was happening to them. I’ve had a great time working for him, and he and his staff are great people to learn from!”
In the VUU SGA, Herriott served as the senior policy advisor for the 89th Zeal Administration. She surveyed Virginia Union University’s and the SGA’s policies, ensuring they were enforced and suggested new policies.
Herriott also served as the president of Virginia Union University College of African American Women, working to create a safe, holistic environment for all women at VUU.
Her interest in history and political science came from her parents. When she was younger and got into trouble, her punishment was writing up five current events from her home state of Maryland and five from across the world.
“I then realized how interested I was in political science and law,” Herriott explained. “History and political science tie together because this country runs on its history. You have to understand historical context and documents to understand certain decisions that are being made today.”
Herriott plans to pursue a master’s degree in public administration. She is excited about opportunities to work in the Virginia General Assembly, work locally with the city of Richmond or to study law.
“I want to share with all college graduates that you got this,” Herriott said. “Keep trying and striving because what’s for you will come to you!”
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