Samys Douglas

NLCP Class of 2017
BA in Economics, Tougaloo University 2020
MBA, Clark Atlanta University, Spring 2023

Samys knows that education is the key to reaching and fulfilling her objectives. Getting her degree in Economics with an emphasis in Business Administration from Tougaloo University was the first step. “Tougaloo opened new doors for me– to actually learn who I am as a person.”

Repairing the World
After receiving her MBA, Samys plans to pursue a doctorate degree; willfully expanding the business acumen she’ll need to match the purpose that propels her: helping low-income communities create generational wealth and stronger communities through land ownership.

On top of her university studies, Samys has secured a real estate license in Illinois, is pursuing another in the state of Georgia, and plans to obtain a broker’s license as well. Each degree and certification is a piece in what Samys sees as a long-term plan to make a difference at home, then take her efforts internationally. “After study-abroad experiences in Brazil and South Africa, I realized that land wealth challenges aren’t just in the places I know.”

The RBL Legacy
“I have a goal and a dream that was determined ever since I became a Phoenix Pact student: to continue Irv and Roberta Lewis’ legacy. I want it to go further. I don’t know if I’ll be able to, but I want to create a program that partners with Phoenix Pact to extend scholarships to Pact students pursuing their Masters and MBA degrees.”

Advice to RBL Scholars
”Be thankful. Really understand the opportunity that’s being given to you, and what someone helping you to get an education means.”

“Looking back, I know coming into my freshman year, I wasn’t really as focused as I could have been. Being a Pact Scholar is something that was awarded to me that I didn’t really take in at first. Understand what’s been given to you and use every advantage you can, and understand that you really are a part of the North Lawndale family.”