The University of Alabama’s Blackburn Institute is excited to introduce three new student officers who will play a key role in supporting their peers through their Blackburn journey. These dedicated individuals are focused on helping students navigate the Institute’s unique experiences, while fostering leadership and building a strong sense of community.
Julienne Pharrams, Chairperson
Julienne had always been certain that a career in law was her calling, and being from Montgomery, Alabama, she was already well-acquainted with the political science department at UA. After completing a summer program and building connections at the University, she was confident this was the place for her. Her passion for civic engagement and leadership led her to Blackburn, where she saw an opportunity to collaborate with others in making a positive impact on the state of Alabama.
“It really has been an illuminating experience. It’s been amazing to realize and understand that even though I might not agree with the person next to me, I can still acknowledge and appreciate the fact that we’re both working towards that end goal of a better Alabama," she shared.
Being a part of the Blackburn Institute has fueled Julienne’s enthusiasm for her future career and given her the tools to succeed. Her experience with the Institute has deepened her understanding of her passions and provided her with a valuable network she’s proud of, which will support her for years to come.
“Blackburn has changed the trajectory of my life. I truly believe that I owe the person I am today to this institute, and that I am the person that I am today because of the things the Institute has exposed me to and the things it has instilled in me. I’m not the same person I was when I stepped on campus three years ago, and I’m better for it,” she reflected.
Julienne says it is a true honor to serve as chairperson. Earning the trust of her peers to lead means a lot to her, and she is grateful for the chance to pay that trust forward by supporting new students on their journey, helping them grow and witnessing their increasing confidence along the way.
“I’m looking forward to watching them develop their voices, feel comfortable enough to stand for what they believe firmly and assertively, and also have those conversations about policies, have those conversations about issues in Alabama, see the other person behind that issue, and become friends with them, and have that relationship remain firm, even as they both advocate for what they believe,” she said.
Marilyn Swint, Vice Chairperson
Originally from Athens, Alabama, Marilyn is a junior pursuing a major in marketing with a minor in international business. She is no stranger to the University, as her mother is an alumna. When Marilyn visited campus during her senior year, she immediately felt at home. Marilyn says that when going through the application process for Blackburn, she was drawn to the mission of the organization.
“I feel like the values aligned a lot with my own values of caring about the state, facilitating a diversity of opinion, instilling a lifetime commitment and networking through the generations," she shared.
Blackburn has given Marilyn the opportunity to share her deep passion for the state of Alabama with others. Having grown up here and with more than five generations of her family calling this place home, she holds a strong pride for the state. Marilyn believes Blackburn is doing remarkable work in shaping the leaders of tomorrow, particularly those who will lead Alabama’s future. She also feels that Blackburn has nurtured her empathy for others and inspired her to remain curious, always eager to learn from those around her.
“I’ve been able to meet people who are so different from me, and I love that. I love hearing about their lives and what they are passionate about, and it really inspires me,” she said.
As vice chairperson, Marilyn aims to build strong relationships with the incoming class and support them as they embark on their next chapter. She will guide them through their curriculum and act as a mentor along the way. Marilyn hopes the new class will fully embrace the incredible opportunities the Institute provides and encourages them to reach out whenever they need someone to talk to.
“I would really encourage them to maximize every opportunity they have and go to everything and go above and beyond. Spend time at the office and do as much as you can,” she advised.
Hailey Adams, Communications Director
Hailey Adams, a sophomore from Birmingham, Alabama, is studying public relations. She chose to attend UA because of the portfolio of incredible opportunities, both academic and professional. Hailey first learned about the Blackburn Institute through her older sister, a member of the 2022 class. After hearing all about the valuable experiences the Institute provides, Hailey knew she had to be a part of it too.
“I realized that Blackburn is not only a place where you can serve others in your community and outside of your community, but you can also somewhat serve yourself as you’re connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds and opinions, and that was so important to me," she explained.
Hailey believes that by sharing and listening to personal stories within the Blackburn community, she has formed connections with others in ways she never imagined. This experience has helped her grow and gain new perspectives on the world. Through it all, her class has become like a second family to her. According to Hailey, they share many common interests: a passion for learning, a desire for mentorship, and a commitment to improving the state of Alabama.
“Being in Alabama has made me realize that there are communities you can go learn so much about and then implement things they are doing into your community, and there’s not another organization that inspires anyone like Blackburn does,” she shared.
As the communications director, Hailey will be capturing experiences and creating content to share with the Blackburn community and beyond. She is passionate about serving as a mentor and using personal stories to highlight the community they have. Hailey is excited about this new role and eager to support the incoming class as they embark on their own journeys.
“It is truly life changing and it can truly shape who you become, and that is why you can’t take anything for granted… It’s going to fly by. It did for me, and I am super excited to watch how the new class does that and watch them succeed and support each other,” she said.