“I really enjoyed my experience as a Purdue student,” shares Anika Goss (LA’93). “Although the African American student body was very small, the community felt close and supportive.”

Today, Goss is using the tools she acquired at Purdue in the city of Detroit. As the executive director of Detroit Future City (DFC), a think-and-do tank, Goss leads a team of experts to coordinate data-driven strategies, actions, and resources to catalyze Detroit’s long-term revitalization.

“Purdue’s African American studies department provided a better understanding of the structures that perpetuate the systemic oppression of African Americans,” says Goss. “My current work is inspired by what I learned from this small group of committed African American professors who were determined to create a world-class department.”

Goss has awarded more than $330,000 in grants to accelerate vacant land revitalization efforts and develop a dynamic community educational network to establish standardized stormwater infrastructure practices. Most recently, Goss has helped spearhead the creation of the Center for Equity, Engagement, and Research, building on DFC’s significant portfolio of research.

Speaking to others wanting to follow in her path to the nonprofit sector, Goss encourages students to seek out both mentorship and volunteer opportunities.

“The School of Liberal Arts was small, so there was not the same level of organized support systems that other schools offered. I had to navigate much of that on my own or through relationships I had with my advisor and professors.”

Finally, Goss encourages students to work on their communications skills.

“Verbal and written communication are critical in this field,” shares Goss. “Young people who write well excel in the nonprofit sector.”