05/08/2026
Commencement Spotlight:
Cauntillia K. Pollard, a native of Albany, will graduate this May from Albany State University with a Master of Public Administration.
Throughout her graduate journey, Cauntillia has exemplified resilience, leadership, and purpose. She successfully defended her Capstone, “A Case Study Analysis of Workplace Psychological Safety and Employee Retention in the City of Atlanta,” while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, even in the midst of profound personal loss, grieving the passing of three grandparents during her matriculation. Her ability to persist with excellence reflects both her discipline and her commitment to the work she is called to do.
Cauntillia served as President of the Public Administration Student Association and Vice President of Pi Alpha Alpha, the global honor society for public affairs and administration. She is also an active member of the American Society for Public Administration, continuing to build meaningful connections within the field. Her leadership and service have earned her multiple recognitions, as well as the respect and support of both her peers and faculty, relationships she will carry with her for years to come.
While completing her degree, Cauntillia worked full-time within the Graduate School, gaining a unique dual perspective as both a student and a professional. This experience strengthened her understanding of higher education systems, student engagement, and organizational operations, allowing her to lead with both insight and intention.
Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, Cauntillia is a dedicated mother to her teenage daughter, Ariana, whom she actively supports in pageantry, sports, and leadership development. By modeling discipline, confidence, and service, she is intentionally shaping the next generation of leadership, instilling in her daughter a sense of purpose and vision for the future.
Following graduation, Cauntillia has received employment opportunities aligned with her career path, with organizations recognizing her leadership, presence, and potential from the very first interaction. She is committed to continuing her growth in public administration, with a focus on strengthening workplaces, improving systems, and leading with integrity.
Cauntillia’s journey reflects more than academic success, it is a testament to perseverance, service, and the power of leading by example.
