Rachel Lawrence is a Marketing and Communication Specialist at Albany State University (ASU), where she has worked for seven years. She also serves as the President of the Staff Council. She credits ASU for helping her achieve academic success, having earned her master’s degree in information technology and currently working on her doctorate in higher education administration. Her deep roots at ASU stem from her love for the university, her family connections, and her aspiration to continue making an impact. 

What brought you to this campus in the first place, and what made you stay?
Before joining ASU, I had just graduated from Columbus State University and was working in the tourism and public relations industries. While those jobs were fun, I did not feel like I was making the impact I desired. When I saw ASU was hiring, I saw an opportunity to truly make a difference, so I applied.

What has kept me at ASU is the welcoming community and its student-focused values. Every day, I feel like my work matters. I’m not just doing a job—I’m helping to shape futures.

Thanks to Albany State, I have completed my Master’s and am now working on my dissertation for my Doctorate—something I never thought possible. Once I finish, I want to give back to the institution that invested in me by potentially teaching part-time.

Can you describe your first memory of being on campus? What stuck with you?
I remember my job interview and campus tour vividly. My interview actually took place in what is now the University Photographer’s office. Every time I pass by that office, I’m reminded of how nervous I was and how much I wanted the job.

The campus tour was the most impactful part of my first day. While I was familiar with the idea of two campuses, what really stood out was the rich history of East Campus. The beauty of the campus and the depth of knowledge it held truly amazed me and showed me just how important Albany State is.

I also remember having lunch at Q’s Cakes, my first meal in Albany. A while later, I met the owner at a Women’s Conference, and it was a great memory to share with her.

And I can’t forget meeting my future husband during my first week at ASU. A few months later, our team was moving offices, and he worked in Information Technology Services (ITS), helping us with the move. Eventually, I asked him out for coffee, and after that, we pretty much went on dates every day. He proposed, and when we got married, one of my bridesmaids was a former ASU coworker, and one of his groomsmen was Josh Lamb, the current director of ITS. Now, we get to spend time together making memories and enjoying university events.

Is there a spot on campus that feels like “your place”? Why that one?
I enjoy spending time outdoors on West Campus, especially by the pond, and I love walking the track. It’s not only great for wellness, but it’s also a perfect space for bonding with colleagues, whether we’re catching up or listening to an audiobook together.

On East Campus, I love the atmosphere of the C.W. Grant Student Union. It’s a lively place where I enjoy seeing students interact and have fun. I also really enjoy working in the newly renovated floor of the James Pendergrast Memorial Library. It’s a space that gives me a sense of pride and reminds me of the incredible renovations happening across campus to better serve our students.

As a staff member, you have a different perspective on ASU than others. What is one thing you’d like others to know about the campus?
Many of our events are open to the public and free, providing great opportunities for community enrichment. From concerts and student art exhibitions to other campus activities, I’d love to see more community members come out—not only to discover what ASU offers but to enrich their own lives as well.

If you could bottle up one feeling or moment from your time on campus, what would it be?
My first Homecoming at ASU. I was overwhelmed—it was my first time working at Homecoming, and there was a ton of people. As an introvert with a bit of social anxiety, I was nervous about getting footage for our social media platforms and worried that people wouldn’t want to participate or connect with me.

But my experience turned out to be the complete opposite. Everyone I met was so welcoming and willing to engage. Now, people from past events remember me both on campus and out in the community. It makes me feel happy and proud to be part of such an institution, one that fosters a genuine "RAMily" atmosphere.

Any final message you would like to share?
If you’re not already, be sure to follow Albany State University on all our social media platforms to stay updated on the great things we are doing. And if you see me around campus or at an event, don’t hesitate to say hello!

Rachel Lawrence’s journey at Albany State University is a testament to the lasting impact the university has on its community. From her initial interview to her current role as a dedicated Marketing and Communication Specialist, Rachel has found a place where both her personal and professional growth can flourish.

Her story reflects the supportive atmosphere that defines ASU, and her passion for giving back to the institution underscores the powerful connections that make the institution not just a university, but a true “RAMily.”