Former journalist → on-air personality → full-time content creator and entrepreneur.
Same mission.
The 9-5 to 5-9.
For the majority of my career, I’ve always had my day job (9-5) with a media organization and then worked on Dean’s List at night (5-9). My extensive journalism background working for CNN, Fox, CBS, and Ryan Seacrest Studios made me a powerful content creator & bridge builder with diverse audiences. I have interviewed countless celebrities including Luke Bryan, Jack Black, Julianne & Derek Hough, New Kids on the Block, Kevin Bacon, Larry King, Jeff Gordon, and more.
In January 2023, I went full-time with Dean’s List after 7 years of building it on the side. All of the companies I worked for in the past gave me the foundation to leave corporate and pursue my own entrepreneurial journey.
You…a professor!?
I’ve been grateful to speak to colleges and universities all over the south. It’s my mission to equip students with the life and professional skills they need to be successful as professionals. I also taught a required course (INT 201 Career Connections) as an adjunct professor at Queens University on Tuesday nights from 2022-2023. I have also been a college recruiter and mentor to 300+ former interns and students from HBCUs, high schools, and universities nationwide and speaker at 100+ career workshops, speeches, and panels across the country to 10,000+ young professionals with DEI focus.
“Professor Dean is easily one of the most enthusiastic and approachable professors I've ever had. As her student in the Internship (INT 201) course, I could see her passion for sharing her knowledge and professional experiences with students. Professor Dean invited numerous speakers to our class to engage in authentic conversations and provide additional support to students. She also organized a new networking event called the Women's Mentor Meet-up, which connected students with mentors from various professions. This event was the first of its kind at our university and showcased Professor Dean's commitment to empowering students.
On a more personal note, I initially felt like I had no chance of obtaining my dream summer internship, but she encouraged me to apply and interview anyway. With her continuous support, I ended up securing the internship. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from her. I wish she taught more courses!
—Cassie Shortman, Accounting Student at Queens University of Charlotte
