76th Miss Central State University leaves behind legacy of empowerment, holistic wellness

Above: Raven Golliday’s platform as Miss Central State University is “Move in Purpose.”

The 76th Miss Central State University grew up with a deep affinity for CSU. As she approaches graduation, Raven Golliday can be sure she has left an impact on the Institution for years to come. 

Golliday, a native of Cleveland and Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing, was drawn to Central State after observing the close friendships and community her mother, Travena Golliday, gained here. While Travena ultimately needed to transfer to another university to be closer to her family, the love she shared with those she met at CSU only strengthened.  

“There was a strong sense of community even though her journey looked a little different than others,” Golliday said.  

While reflecting on her time at Central State University, Golliday remembers the challenges she faced during the pandemic and the strong bonds she formed with her peers. She cherished her time traveling with the Royal Court, speaking at conferences, and building networks with other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).  

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Her involvement in Illmatic Expression, a student organization for creatives, and her dedication to organizing women's empowerment sessions and holistic wellness initiatives have made her an inspiration to many. 

“COVID definitely impacted my transition (to college),” she said. “It was a very tough time for our entire class. It was a sad time. We didn’t have a (high school) prom or graduation because everything was virtual. We did not have the same college experience as others. It was also upsetting because we weren’t really able to celebrate the hard work that we put in.” 

Amidst the uncertainty of her first year of college, Golliday and her fellow students were unable to participate in any in-person gatherings, athletic events, or enjoy meals together at the campus cafe. Despite these challenges, Golliday and her peers organized movie and game nights within the confines of their dorm rooms and forged meaningful connections with one another, building strong bonds that will likely last a lifetime. 

“We made nothing into something,” Golliday added. 

During the annual Academic Recognition Convocation, Jessica Ngoie-Thomas, director of Marauder Leadership and Engagement and Golliday’s mentor, introduced Golliday as a passionate and inspiring leader.  

“Through her dedication, resilience, and commitment to the student body, (Golliday) has become a beacon of hope in empowering her fellow students,” Ngoie-Thomas said. “I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Raven’s leadership and spirit. Her passion for uplifting others and relentless pursuit of excellence serves as a constant reminder of the importance of persevering and determination in achieving one’s goal.”  

Golliday said attending a Historically Black University is a privilege.  

“(It is) a space created for us to be and dream as big as we want to be,” she said. “A place to bring more out of life while giving to those coming after. So, my question to you all this morning is, what more do you have to give to leave this place better than you found it? That is a question I ask myself daily, and it has played a pivotal role in every one of my achievements.”  

After extending many thanks to family, faculty, staff and mentors, Golliday said she wanted to thank “the little me, my younger self, for never giving up no matter how hard it got; for never allowing doubt to deter me; for holding onto my dreams because it’s the most powerful thing you can ever do.”  

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“(At graduation), I will proudly walk across the stage knowing I gave more...More focus, more work, more advocacy, more leadership, more confidence, and most importantly, more love. And as I continue my legacy and prepare to transition, I am excited to see what more the world has for me.” 

Golliday’s platform as Miss Central State University is “Move in Purpose.” She encourages her peers to maximize their value every day. But it was not only a platform during her reign — it is something she lives every day. 

“(The platform) is the embodiment of what it means to be intentional about being great,” she said. “It is a continuous act. I always wanted to be a voice and advocate for my student body while enhancing the student culture and what it looks like while also striving for academic excellence.”