Her Story
About Tasha
Tasha Thigpen, Ph.D. serves as Director of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Initiatives at Hinds Community College in Jackson, Mississippi, where she is dedicated to expanding educational access, supporting student achievement, and creating pathways for future leaders. With more than a decade of experience in higher education, Dr. Thigpen focuses on recruiting high school students to HBCU opportunities, developing student success initiatives, and fostering meaningful partnerships that empower students through scholarships, mentorship, and engagement programs. In her role, she leads strategic initiatives such as HBCU Week, Founders Week, and Black History Month programming while collaborating with organizations including the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to enhance educational opportunities for students.
Throughout her career, Dr. Thigpen has held a variety of roles that have shaped her passion for student development and advocacy. Her professional journey includes experience in retail, elementary education as a fifth-grade English teacher, testing coordination, academic advising, and student services. These diverse experiences have strengthened her ability to connect with students, understand their unique needs, and create supportive environments that encourage academic and personal success.
Dr. Thigpen earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Jackson State University, a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Mississippi College, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Urban Higher Education from Jackson State University. Her accomplishments have been recognized through honors including the Mississippi Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, membership in the inaugural cohort of the Hinds Community College Leadership Academy, and participation in the Omicron Cohort of the Higher Education Leadership Foundation. She also serves on the advisory board for the Students Learn Students Vote Coalition. Dr. Thigpen credits her success to hard work, dedication, faith, and the unwavering support of family and friends. She encourages young women to embrace confidence, lead with purpose, and remain committed to making a positive impact in their communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tasha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work and dedication lead by a great supervisor along with great support from my family and friends. I spend a lot of time outside of typical work hours but having that support helps during challenging moments.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is to always treat people fairly and to do the right thing, leading with a good heart even in stressful situations.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women to be confident, be strong, and don't give up. Lead with the right purpose and follow faith-based decisions to succeed.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Navigating different generations of students is a key challenge and opportunity. We work with both traditional and non-traditional students at a community college, so being flexible and meeting students where they are is essential.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My values center on living in good faith, representing my family and name well, and treating people with integrity. My faith, family, and support system guide me to live a life pleasing to God.
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