TSU Graduate Spotlight: Graduate Carries on Family Legacy of Doctoral Degrees

Posted on Thursday, December 14, 2023

A Legacy of Dr. Hunters: In the Hunter family, the title of "Dr. Hunter" isn't just a designation; it's a legacy. J'Naudia's grandfather, father, mother, brother, sister-in-law, and adoptive brother—all earned doctoral degrees. However, J'Naudia is more than just another doctor in the family. She represents the closing of the third ring of descendants proudly carrying on the Hunter tradition,  an accomplishment that was her late grandfather's dream.

Her connection to academia runs deep. J'Naudia's grandfather, William P. Hytche Sr., the 10th and third longest-serving chief executive at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), an HBCU in Maryland, shaped her journey. She becomes the sole family member to don his regalia at her ceremony,  honoring his memory as she earns her Doctor of Education (EdD), following in his educational footsteps.

 

 

Choosing Texas Southern University: Her journey to TSU took a detour. She originally wanted to attend TSU for her undergraduate studies, but fate led her to her grandfather’s domain. On move-in day, instead of going to 3^rd ward, her parents drove her to the airport to go to Princess Anne, MD to attend UMES. Determined to fulfill her dream, she chose to attend TSU for her doctorate. Her delayed arrival only intensified her gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the legacy she always envisioned.

The TSU Experience: Matriculating at TSU was more than an educational pursuit for J'Naudia; it was a transformative experience. The Ed.D. program not only equipped her with practical skills but also bestowed upon her the confidence to embrace her title as Dr. Hunter-Phillips. For her, TSU became the place where delayed dreams were not denied but flourished and fulfilled.

A Vision for the Future: As she strides toward her goal of becoming a university president, Dr. J'Naudia Hunter-Phillips credits TSU for nurturing her professional aspirations. Her favorite aspects include the vibrant campus life, Homecoming, and the camaraderie within the SWAC community. She expresses gratitude for professors who not only taught her professional skills but also mentored her on the path to leadership. 

Overcoming Challenges: J'Naudia's journey was not without its challenges. The comprehensive exams, a formidable hurdle for any doctoral candidate, became even more daunting during the COVID era. However, her resilience and the unwavering support of TSU's faculty propelled her through these obstacles, reinforcing her determination.

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