Meet Kaylyn Billups
Kaylyn Billups, a devoted and family-oriented professional, has set a high standard of excellence in the higher education industry. Her journey from a data processing role at Daemen University to her current position as the Director of the Graduate Admissions department is a testament to her skill and determination. In this role, Kaylyn has guided her team and led them to surpass enrollment targets, a clear reflection of her exceptional leadership skills. Her work has profoundly impacted the lives of post-baccalaureate students as they pursue their advanced degrees.
Despite facing challenges early in her career, Kaylyn has emerged as a beacon of success. She was once unfairly labeled a 'problem' for advocating for herself and recognizing her worth. However, she refused to be deterred and has continued to make significant strides in her career. Kaylyn is a vocal advocate for women of color, encouraging them to assert themselves and advocate for their worth. She attributes her success to the unwavering support of her family and friends, and her deep-rooted faith and trust in God.
Personal Milestones
Where are you from?
Buffalo, NY
What was your first job?
I worked at the movie theater in the mall.
One thing most people don't know about you:
One thing most people don't know about me is that I went to school for psychology because I wanted to be a psychiatrist. In high school, I read "Impulse" by Ellen Hopkins, which inspired me to pursue this career path.
What is your favorite book or podcast?
Let's be honest: I don't listen to podcasts or make time to read books. When I listen to podcasts, it's probably my boyfriend's and his friends' podcast, "We Think it's a Sports Show," to show my support. I did, however, start listening to the "Everybody's Crazy Podcast" that Savannah James and her friend April started this month.
What motivates you to pursue current and new passions?
It might sound cliché, but my family motivates me to pursue my passions. Everyone knows how much I love my family and how close we are. I love making my family proud, especially by pursuing things they might not have been able to do.
What is your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?
My biggest accomplishment at this point in my life is being where I am right now in my career. When I tell you, I literally started from the bottom and worked my way up. When I first started at Daemen, I was on the processing team. I worked hard daily to help everyone and ensure they got what they needed. That led to my promotion to transfer counselor, assistant director, and then director. Hard work and communication got me to where I am today.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew at 18 years old?
I would tell myself not to be so in a rush to be an adult. Enjoy being young because time flies by. It's okay not to have everything figured out right away. The more you grow and learn, the more you know you are making the right decision. Listen and trust that God will never put you through something you can't handle. Also, SAVE MONEY!!
Professional Milestones
Is what you do now what you always wanted to do as a child?
No! I never even knew there was a career in higher education. I wanted to be a psychiatrist.
What inspired you to go into your industry?
In college, I worked very closely with the VP of Financial Aid. He got me to go to Fredonia. He worked with my family and became family. Seeing how helpful he was opened my eyes to wanting to pursue a career in higher education.
Describe in one word what it's like to be a woman of color in your industry.
Needed
Was there ever a time you faced challenges in your professional life? How did you overcome them?
Oh absolutely. There was a time I advocated for myself, and as a result, I was painted the "angry black woman." Never in my life did I think I would be seen like that because I've always been respectful. Unfortunately, no matter how respectful you are, there are still individuals who are not comfortable with a woman, especially one of color, advocating for themselves even when they rightfully deserve the reward. Despite being very hurt for being portrayed in a negative light, I remembered what I was taught as a child, and that is to kill others with kindness. I continued to be kind and stay true to myself while speaking up respectfully, and God allowed me to overcome this difficult time in my career.
What's next for you in your career?
My overall goal is to work in Athletics in higher education. I hope to transition into athletics in the near future.
What advice would you give a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in your industry?
Be consistent and patient. Surround yourself with like-minded people—few people of color work in the higher education industry, especially at predominantly white institutions (PWIs). My other advice is to connect with those who look like you; they can be your biggest supporters.
Who/what do you attribute your success to?
My family and friends' support is crucial to my success. Without their continued support and guidance, I might have given up on many things. Most importantly, I thank God for leading me down a path like no other!
Connect with Kaylyn
LinkedIn: Kaylyn Billups
Facebook: Kaylyn Billups
Instagram: Kaylyn_Jordan
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