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Xavier Ward: A Fluid Journey of Growth, Vision and Empowerment at FVSU
Posted on Dec 09, 2025 at 12:41 PM
Fort Valley State University has long been a place where students discover their purpose, build community and unlock potential they never knew they had. For Xavier Ward, a Marketing scholar from McDonough, Georgia, FVSU became much more than a college close to home—it became the foundation for the greater future he envisions for himself.
Ward initially chose FVSU because of its proximity to home, and now he says he is grateful for that decision. “FVSU helped me build a foundation for the ultimate greater things I have planned for myself,” he shared. His journey reflects transformation, discipline and a commitment to empowering others along the way. When Ward describes the difference between the freshman version of himself and the senior he is today, he calls them “night and day.” As a freshman, he was learning about himself—exploring the campus, socially engaging and actively networking. He came in with curiosity and ambition, but also uncertainty. Now, as a senior, he stands confident in his purpose and prepares for the next chapter.
Ward faced challenges daily, but each obstacle shaped him into a stronger and more resilient leader.
One major journey was establishing his own respected student organization: Wildcat Wallstreet. Set within a university known primarily for agriculture, Ward worked diligently to create opportunities for students in business, finance and cryptocurrency entrepreneurship. His initiative filled a gap on campus and sparked interest in areas many students had never considered.
FVSU’s mission, “Empower the Impossible,” played a significant role in Ward’s college journey. He explained that the mission helped him decide what he truly wanted to pursue. Like many students, he came to college unsure of his exact path. But through his experiences, he empowered himself to do more and inspired his peers to strive toward the best versions of themselves. One of his most memorable empowering moments was a full-circle realization: the organizations he built, the students he helped, and the impact he made. “I feel like I’ve changed people’s lives and left a mark,” he reflected proudly.
Throughout his academic journey, Ward credits several individuals who supported and shaped him. He extends heartfelt appreciation to Michelle Drew, Ph.D., and Stacie Barrett, Ph.D., who consistently checked in, provided resources and encouraged his academic growth. He also acknowledges Drew, his club advisor, and the entire Business Department for fostering his success. Additionally, Ward credits Kuumba Rashidi for helping him develop his photography and videography skills.
Being part of the Wildcat community strengthened Ward’s sense of identity and urgency. It taught him to “build his own table,” create opportunities, and pursue his passions without waiting for permission. One full-circle moment stands out: as a freshman, Ward expressed interest in cryptocurrency, only to face skepticism. Today, he leads an organization that hosts major crypto-focused events and supports small businesses through financial literacy and entrepreneurial programs.
Ward believes FVSU prepared him well by teaching him discipline, diligence and the importance of having clear goals. He embraces the values of creating his own path, building new opportunities, and making intentional decisions, lessons strengthened by his parents' guidance, who encouraged him to think ahead and choose wisely. When asked to sum up his FVSU experience in one word, Ward chose “fluid.”
He arrived with big dreams but no clear roadmap. Over time, things began to align. He grew adaptable, embraced risk and welcomed challenges with confidence. His journey flowed—shifting, expanding and shaping him into the man he is today.
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