From the president
Ajalon Mercer, a first-year graduate student in the Athletic Training program at Towson University, is a student leader active in faith-based networks. Ajalon is particularly passionate about youth development. She participated in Youth with a Mission where she received interdenominational Christian training. For the past four years, she has been a camp counselor at a non-profit organization called River Valley Ranch, and she also mentors a small group of high school girls. In addition to youth mentorship, Ajalon supports efforts that help people thrive, such as providing free childcare to mothers to allow them to participate in study groups and providing food and clothing to people who are housing insecure. Ajalon takes a relational approach to her work to ensure that the people she encounters – no matter their circumstances – feel like they matter and belong. This approach has allowed her to meet people where they are, understand their experiences, and provide relevant support.
Personal Statement
I grew up in a family that has dedicated their lives to uplifting individuals and building strong communities. My grandfather impressed me with the importance of being active in our community. From my father, a pastor in Baltimore, I learned the power faith-based approaches can have on addressing social issues. I further cultivated this insight when I participated in interdenominational Christian training provided by Youth with a Mission. I realized that the consequences of social problems are severe and can affect individuals and their communities simultaneously. It is for this reason that I pursue a relational approach that pulls people together to create an environment in which they feel like they matter and belong. I currently serve as a camp counselor at a non-profit organization called River Valley Ranch and a mentor to a small group of high school girls. When I work with teenagers, I make sure to listen to them to develop solutions that are informed by their circumstances and lived experiences. My goal is to take the knowledge I developed through volunteering, faith-based education, and my graduate program in Athletic Training to support low-income athletes on the field while addressing social issues they face off the field.