Jalen Robinson is proof that Livingstone College doesn’t just build students; it shapes legacies. From walking the campus as a student leader with boundless ambition to now traveling as an Admissions Recruiter with a mission, Jalen is a living testament to the transformative power of this storied HBCU. With his roots firmly planted at Livingstone, he’s now spreading the seeds of opportunity far and wide.
The Blueprint of a Leader
As a student, Jalen Robinson was engrained in the very fabric of Livingstone. “I had to balance a lot, being in the classroom, working with the school radio station, serving on the Royal Court, playing for campus ministries, and being a part of a fraternity,” Jalen says. His roles included serving as Mr. Freshman, Mr. Sophomore, Mr. Junior, and eventually as the 19th Mr. Livingstone College. A position that allowed him to be the face and voice of student advocacy.
However, Jalen didn’t stop there. He also represented Livingstone as an Ambassador for Common Cause North Carolina, mentored younger students through the Blue Bear Buddy program, and worked to empower voters as an LC Votes ambassador. These opportunities didn’t just fill his schedule; they filled his life with purpose.
“They taught me to see beyond being a student,” he reflects. “I built connections, represented Livingstone across the country, and became someone who’s recognized in the HBCU world. It has truly shaped who I am today.”
For Jalen, moving into the role of admissions recruiter was a homecoming. “I’ve been recruiting students and giving tours since my freshman year,” he shares. “By the time I was wrapping up my senior year, I already knew I wanted to be part of the admissions team.”
What sets Jalen apart is his proximity to the student experience. “I know Livingstone as it is right now. That gives me an advantage over someone who graduated years ago,” he explains. “I can relate to students and parents in a way that’s fresh and real.”
A Livingstone Like No Other
Jalen’s pitch to prospective students is polished and personal. He highlights Livingstone’s top-ranked culinary program, its innovative Career Readiness Institute that prepares students for internships and jobs starting freshman year, and its scholarship system that stacks academic, athletic, and need-based awards.
“Livingstone may be a smaller campus, but that means bigger connections,” he says. “We’re a family here, and families take care of each other.”
Lessons for the Next Generation
When asked, Jalen’s advice for current students it’s as practical as it is heartfelt: “Stay connected to your professors; they’re your biggest allies. Learn everything you can about the college so you can represent it well after graduation. And, most importantly, stay balanced. Don’t let distractions throw you off course.”
As a recruiter, Jalen’s goals reach far beyond just bringing students to Livingstone. “I want to help students build their GPAs, mentor them through their college years, and make sure they get the same opportunities I did,” he says. He dreams of expanding Livingstone’s reach internationally and promoting its STEM and liberal arts programs.
“It’s about showing the world that HBCUs like Livingstone aren’t just for African-Americans, but they’re for anyone ready to succeed,” Jalen emphasizes. “The same education you’d get at Howard or A&T, you can find here and with even more heart.”
Jalen’s success story is also a testament to the transformative impact of the United Negro College Fund, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships and support to students attending HBCUs. During his time at Livingstone, Jalen was a recipient of several UNCF scholarships, which alleviated financial burdens and allowed him to focus on his academic and leadership pursuits.
The UNCF, established in 1944, has awarded over $5 billion in scholarships, enabling countless students to achieve their dreams of higher education. Jalen credits the organization’s support as pivotal in his journey, noting, “The scholarships I received from UNCF weren’t just financial assistance but confidence in my potential and a reminder of those rooting for my success.” This support reflects the broader mission of the UNCF to ensure that education remains accessible for all.
For Jalen, Livingstone College isn’t just where he found his footing; it’s where he found his purpose. Now, he’s committed to sharing that gift with as many students as possible. Whether through heartfelt conversations with families or inspiring high school seniors to believe in themselves, Jalen is ensuring that the legacy of Livingstone College shines brighter with every new Blue Bear he recruits.
In Jalen’s own words: “This place gave me everything. Now, it’s my turn to give it back—with interest”
