LOCK HAVEN — As Lock Haven’s featured student speaker in December 2019, Mia Swales offered a message of optimism with a vision to become an inspirational leader for others.

“Be fruitful and multiply, lead with love, embrace grace, and spread it,” Swales said in her speech. “Continue to be the light and never underestimate the hope that you can give to someone else. Success is what you want it to be. Heart goes a long way.”

The oldest of five children, Swales, who graduated with a communication degree, has done that and more since enrolling as a graduate student in Lock Haven’s clinical mental health counseling program. Just one semester away from earning her master’s degree, the first-generation college graduate has spent the bulk of her journey dedicating her time, talent, and treasure to aiding countless Lock Haven students in their pursuit of success.

In August, Swales was hired as a student success specialist for Commonwealth University-Lock Haven’s Student Success Center. She is also the director of Lock Haven’s new Multicultural Center, and serves as the advisor for student organizations: the Black Student Union, the Multicultural Advisory Activities Council, and the Latino Student Association.

Her responsibilities include working with students in the university’s Academic Success Program, conceptualizing multicultural programming, increasing minority student retention, and student mentorship. Her goal when interacting with students is consistent; to instill hope by helping them reframe their perspectives, and by encouraging them to identify their “why.”

“Some students just need someone to believe in them. Some just need an ear. Some just need someone to connect with,” Swales said. “Others might just need to hear a success story or to know that someone else has been in their shoes and the obstacles they’re facing can be overcome.”

“Showing students that they are courageous and helping them become a shining light goes a long way in making them feel hopeful about their ability to succeed,” she added.