Class of 2025: Bria K. Hill
“From the start, I was driven by a passion for leadership, collaboration, and positive change,” Bria Hill says. As president of the Student Government Association, student visitor to the Board of Trustees, and member of the President’s Advisory Council of Students, she achieved her mission to leave McDaniel a better place for future students. She balanced her leadership roles with her studies as a Biology major, and she has plans to go into the field of education after Commencement.
"Comparative Anatomy, the only dissection course offered at McDaniel, was my favorite class — not only because of the valuable skills I gained but also because of the meaningful connections I built [...] The course challenged me academically while also fostering a mentorship that I truly value."
In her own words ...
When I took my first step on the Hill, I was:
Eager to immerse myself in campus life. I was excited to get involved with clubs and campus offices, not just to meet new people but also to contribute meaningfully to the college community. I saw an opportunity to make an impact, to be a voice for students, and to help shape the experiences of those around me. From the start, I was driven by a passion for leadership, collaboration, and positive change.
The me who will ring the Old Main bell on Commencement Day is:
Incredibly excited and fulfilled to be graduating from McDaniel College, knowing that I’m leaving with priceless memories and invaluable experiences. From meaningful friendships to impactful leadership opportunities, my time here has shaped me in ways I will always cherish.
Real-world experiences:
One of my most rewarding experiences at McDaniel was serving as the Leadership at McDaniel intern with the Office of Student Engagement (OSE), where I helped foster student leadership. I also conducted summer research for the Inclusive Imprints project and have worked on my capstone research, further exploring my academic interests.
My aha moment:
I’ve learned that success isn’t about perfection or over-performance but about growth, balance, and authenticity.
Footprints I'm leaving on the Hill:
I hope to leave a legacy at McDaniel built on empathy, advocacy, collaboration, and achievement. I want to be remembered for creating spaces where students feel supported, heard, and empowered to make a difference. By fostering connections and driving positive change, I aim to leave a lasting impact on the campus community.
Faculty or staff member who most influenced who I have become:
Director of Student Engagement Amanda Gelber from OSE has had the greatest impact on me through her unwavering kindness, genuine support, and thoughtful guidance. She has been a listening ear in times of need, offering honest conversations with empathy and care. Her ability to provide constructive feedback while ensuring I feel supported has helped me grow tremendously. Through her mentorship, I’ve learned to see the bigger picture, navigate challenges with confidence, and lead with both compassion and purpose. Beyond McDaniel, I know we will share a lifelong friendship built on mutual respect, support, and the lessons she has imparted.
Best class ever:
Comparative Anatomy, the only dissection course offered at McDaniel, was my favorite class — not only because of the valuable skills I gained but also because of the meaningful connections I built. Working closely with Professor Katie Staab made the experience even more impactful, as her guidance and passion for the subject deepened my understanding and appreciation for anatomy. The course challenged me academically while also fostering a mentorship that I truly value.
Tell us a little about your activities, including sports, during your years at McDaniel:
I have been deeply engaged in campus life at McDaniel through a variety of leadership, service, and academic roles. I serve as the Student Government Association president and a visitor to the Board of Trustees, advocating for student interests at the highest levels. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. in the Upsilon Gamma Chapter, I have served on regional committees and participated in a leadership academy. I am also a second-year resident assistant for first-year housing, a student worker in OSE, and a member of Trumpeters and the President’s Advisory Council of Students. Recently, I was honored with the Jane M. Prichard Memorial Award.
Previously, I served as a teaching assistant for the Biology Department and was the Leadership at McDaniel student intern, where I was awarded the Distinguished Leadership Award and graduated from the Sophomore Cohort Leadership Program. I was named the 2024 Greek of the Year and have held roles as a peer mentor, advisory board leader for academic life and the first-year experience, and DEIJ student fellow with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Additionally, I served as vice president of the Black Student Union and PR chair for Hairitage. Each of these experiences has shaped my passion for leadership, advocacy, and community building at McDaniel.
Took me totally by surprise:
Winning the James Brant Memorial Cup as president of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority was an unexpected and profound honor. Being the first National Pan-Hellenic Council organization at McDaniel to receive this award highlighted our dedication to excellence and left an indelible mark on our chapter’s legacy.
My favorite spot on campus:
My favorite spot on campus is the middle level of Roj Student Center, because it is the heart of campus life. Whether studying, catching up with classmates, or engaging with different clubs, it always felt like the perfect place to be involved and in the know.
Most mind-boggling idea I learned at McDaniel:
The most mind-boggling thing I learned is the true value of a small liberal arts college education. I came to appreciate how it fosters critical thinking, close-knit mentorship, and interdisciplinary learning in ways that larger institutions often can’t.
My capstone title:
“Exploring Collagen Fiber Orientation in Zebrafish Jaw Structures Using Polarized Light Microscopy.”
What it’s about in plain talk:
My Biology capstone research uses microscopy to analyze and categorize the structural arrangement of features in the jaw of zebrafish.
What's next:
After graduation, I plan to explore job opportunities in the education field, where I can apply my skills and passion for learning to make a meaningful impact.
How will you stay connected to McDaniel?
I will stay connected to McDaniel through the meaningful relationships I’ve built with faculty and staff, as well as the peers I’ve mentored and formed strong bonds with. These connections have shaped my experience, and I look forward to continuing them beyond graduation.
If you received financial aid, what did that mean for you and your family?
I received financial aid through the Educators Legacy Scholarship, which made my education more accessible for both me and my family. This support allowed me to fully engage in my academic and leadership pursuits at McDaniel without financial barriers.
About Bria
