By Yvonne Ratledge (Public Relations, Class of 2024)
Carol Poston (’81) never thought about attending UT. The Nashville native had her heart set on going to a school in North Carolina when an impromptu stop on campus changed everything.
“We were on our way home after visiting schools in North Carolina when my dad suggested we stop at UT,” recalls Poston. “After that tour I didn’t apply anywhere else. I knew UT was the place for me.”
While at UT, Poston studied advertising in the College of Communication and Information. Her time on campus was marked by boisterous football games, countless sorority events, long study sessions, and the forging of lifelong friendships.
“The UT education really prepared me for a career,” says Poston. “The variety of classes and real-world experiences translated into a versatility that helped me build momentum pretty quickly.”
After graduating, Poston began a storied career in the field of advertising that has included stints in media planning, account management, and business development at several ad agencies. That experience facilitated a move to the health care industry and her current marketing position at Vanderbilt Health. She has also remained actively involved with her alma mater, serving on both the CCI Board of Visitors and the Tombras School of Advertising and Public Relations Advisory Board.
“Being on the boards is a great way to stay connected to UT and contribute to the advancement of my school and college,” says Poston. “I love to talk with students about their career interests and then tap into my network to help them make connections.”
As the daughter of two first-generation college students who became high school teachers, Poston understands firsthand how access to higher education can change lives. This is why she created the Carol Poston Scholarship Endowment, which has supported many students for the past 15 years.
Poston tries to connect with recipients of her scholarship to serve as a resource and mentor. She also encourages each of them to support the university after graduation. Many have followed her lead, with one setting up a fund to help students with travel abroad.
Most recently, Poston elevated her support of CCI through a bequest that focuses on scholarship support, enrichment (technology and operational needs), and student success initiatives (travel abroad and experiential learning).
“The Office of Gift Planning made it so easy to include UT in my estate plans,” says Poston. “I really wanted my gift to mirror my interests, so they gave me a clean palette and let me decide on the structure. What can be done is unlimited, and that’s very appealing.”
“It’s up to alumni to give back,” adds Poston. “Just because you graduated doesn’t mean you stop being a part of the university. If you’re a true Volunteer, you find a way to serve.”
