This Q&A is part of the story series Voices of Drake that highlights the diversity, ambition, and passion of the incredible people who make up our campus community. In recognition and celebration of Black History Month, we will be sharing a collection of interviews to spotlight Black voices in our community. This week’s story highlights Drake senior, Brooklyn Lowry, who is studying health care administration and pursuing a law degree.
Introducing Brooklyn Lowry: A Future Advocate for Change
Background:
Brooklyn Lowry, a senior at Drake University, is on a mission to blend her studies in health care administration with a future in law, with the aim of advancing public policy and championing health advocacy, particularly in underserved communities.
Significance of Black History Month
For Lowry, Black History Month serves as a period of reflection and celebration of Black resilience and achievements, acknowledging both historical and ongoing challenges. It is a time to honor the cultural contributions to various fields and a reminder of her personal identity and heritage.
Educational Journey at Drake
Originally pursuing pre-pharmacy, Lowry found her true calling in health care administration through her involvement in non-profit organizations and public policy research. “My most impactful and enjoyable experiences were actually within non-profit organizations,” she shared. This shift led her to pursue a future in law, driven by a desire to become an agent of change.
Drake’s Supportive Environment
Lowry praises Drake University for providing a platform to explore diverse career paths and gain valuable professional experiences. She highlights the university’s emphasis on alumni connections and professional growth as instrumental in her journey.
Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
Lowry describes her time at Drake as transformative, experiencing growth in personal, emotional, professional, spiritual, and cognitive areas. She aspires to leverage legal frameworks to address healthcare inequities and contribute to a law school community that values diverse perspectives.
Influential Mentors
Throughout her time at Drake, Lowry has been guided by several mentors, each contributing to different facets of her life. Among them, Jessica Lang taught her professionalism, Corey Dion Lewis emphasized storytelling and passion, and Sharon Miller modeled authenticity and honesty in advocacy work.
Campus and Community Involvement
Lowry is actively engaged both on and off campus, participating in organizations like Unity Roundtable, Delta Theta Phi, and Crew Scholars. Her work with Prevent Child Abuse Iowa and MyCityMyHealth podcast underscores her commitment to advocacy and amplifying marginalized voices.
Call to Action During Black History Month
Lowry emphasizes the need for political and social activism, particularly in light of recent policy changes affecting race-conscious factors. She advocates for leaving behind disrespectful stereotypes and jokes, urging a focus on meaningful activism.
Legacy of Resilience
Lowry attributes much of her drive to her Nana, who instilled the value of education and resilience. Her Nana’s experiences and unwavering belief in the power of education continue to inspire Lowry’s pursuit of knowledge and success.
Advice for Future Students
To prospective students, Lowry offers this piece of advice: Embrace the privilege of college life, enjoy the journey, and give yourself grace in academics. “Enjoy it not only for yourself, but for the people that couldn’t,” she advises.
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