Alumnae Spotlight

Christy Byrd graduated from Agnes Scott in 2007 with a BA in Psychology. She is originally from Gastonia, North Carolina. Christy works in Santa Cruz, California as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She earned her PhD at the University of Michigan in Education and Psychology. Her research examines how school climate for diversity promotes academic engagement, cultural competence, and psychological well-being in students. Her research has shown that when youth experience their schools as positive, identity-affirming spaces, they are more academically engaged and successful. Agnes Scott taught her to be confident in herself and to appreciate the amazing things that women can do. The psychology program at Agnes Scott is unique because its small classes encouraged everyone to be thoughtful and contribute to discussions. Now, Christy tries to bring that small class feeling to her courses at UCSC, so that every student can know that they and their ideas are valuable. Christy is also thankful to her Agnes Scott mentors and hopes to inspire her students just as much! The photo is of Christy teaching. She is to the right.