The Rise of Nakia Gard
Undaunted. That’s the first word that comes to mind when one thinks of Nakia Gard.
From graduating as a first-generation college student in 2009 to becoming the first Black woman and one of the youngest trustees to have ever been appointed to our Board of Trustees when she was just 36, one would never guess that Gard pushed past self-doubt to get to where she is today.
Despite having attended the prestigious Philadelphia School of Dance Arts, Gard wasn’t sure she’d fit in as a dance major at DeSales, so she began her undergraduate career as an undeclared major.
“I felt intimidated when I didn’t see anyone in the dance program who looked like me,” she said. “I didn’t see anyone with my hair texture or using tan pointe shoes instead of pink.”
Gard quickly summoned the courage to audition for, and eventually become a graduate of our dance program. Her experiences on campus ultimately planted the seeds for a successful career in higher education.
“The experience of inclusivity on campus, along with finding the right major and college during the admissions process, motivated me to pivot to higher education. I wanted to be the person students turned to throughout their entire college journey, from admissions to commencement.”
Early in her career, Gard worked for DeSales as an admissions counselor before accepting positions closer to home at Drexel University and then Temple University. Now, in addition to being a trustee at DeSales, she manages the education policy program at the University of Pennsylvania and is co-chair of the Noir Network Affinity Group.
Gard says that becoming the first female Black board member at DeSales in 2023 was not just a historic moment, but important so that people like her daughters can “witness how dedication, expertise, and faith can open doors.”
She’s excited to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table and aspires to increase representation on campus while also bridging the gap between the board and the campus community.
“My enthusiasm for DeSales remains unwavering because I cherish the opportunity it gave me as a first-generation Black woman. I am committed to being part of an institution that gives back to the community that afforded me this opportunity, and I strive to extend the same opportunities to future students.”