Ewo Harrell '10

Ewo Harrell '10

Major and minor:
Organizing theme major: Political Science and Chinese Language with a minor in African Studies

Activities while at Union:
I prioritized taking advantage of every opportunity Union offered. I participated in Greek life and spent one year as a coxswain for the men's crew team. I also held leadership positions in TVUC and Golub House. As a member of the executive committee of the Black Student Union (BSU) I helped Union students attend the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama. I served as a Senior Interviewer in the Admissions office and lived at Wells House for Community Service during my sophomore year. One of the highlights of my time was spending three incredible terms away and a participating in a miniterm: a fall term in Shanghai, a spring term in Washington, D.C., and a winter term on an independent study abroad in Beijing. The Civil Rights Public History miniterm was a roadtrip to key Civil Rights sites through the south — a truly unforgettable adventure. These experiences helped me grow both academically and personally.

Currently resides in:
Gainesville, Florida. Go Gators!

Career:
I’ve built a career dedicated to advancing health equity, with over fifteen years of experience in government, nonprofit, and consulting roles. My work spans project management, policy, advocacy, and communications, and I'm currently focused on venture capital, investing in biotechnologies and life sciences that address health inequities. I am just as committed to my work serving on the board of the National Kidney Foundation, nonprofit and life sciences advisory boards, and as Executive Director of African Diasportic Arts Education, Inc.

My favorite place on campus:
The Nott Memorial was my favorite place on campus. Its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect spot for reflection and studying. The Nott is such an iconic symbol of Union’s history and spirit.

What advice would you give to students on campus?
Take advantage of every opportunity to explore your interests and passions. Union offers such a rich environment in which to grow academically and personally. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, whether studying abroad, engaging in leadership, or building relationships with professors and peers.

What’s a core memory from your time on campus?
One of my core memories is working on my senior thesis, which Union allowed me to do in Beijing and Guangzhou, China. I spent time in internet cafés interviewing Africans about their treatment in the country. Balancing that research with my other commitments was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The experience deepened my understanding of global issues and taught me the importance of perseverance and cultural sensitivity—skills that continue to guide me today.

Why is it important to give back to Union?
Giving back to Union is about ensuring that each generation of students has more opportunities and resources than the last. My time at Union shaped who I am today. I want to help provide students with the same transformative experiences—whether through scholarships, enhancing academic programs, or supporting extracurricular activities. By paying it forward, we can continue to elevate the Union experience, making each year better than the one before for students who follow in our footsteps. It’s about building on the legacy we benefited from and ensuring that future students can thrive in an even more enriched environment.