Karess Melanie is a multimedia journalist, storyteller, and graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. Driven by a passion for service, she has used journalism and student leadership to support her community, advocate for greater representation, and create meaningful change on campus.
In this episode of Blackness?, Karess shares her journey from Brooklyn to ASU, reflecting on how leadership helped her overcome introversion and find her voice. We discuss navigating predominantly white spaces, rebuilding ASU's chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists, confronting racism in academic and professional settings, and the importance of staying true to your identity while pursuing success. Through it all, Karess offers thoughtful insight into leadership, resilience, and what it means to walk confidently in your Blackness.
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