Transform Mid-Atlantic is thrilled to welcome Dainia Higgins as the newest AmeriCorps VISTA member serving at Coppin State University. A recent graduate of Coppin with a B.S. in Mathematics, Dainia brings a strong commitment to student support and a passion for service. During her time on campus, she served as a peer mentor, orientation organizer, and residence hall desk assistant—roles that reflect her dedication to student success.
Since joining in April, Dainia has hit the ground running, already making great strides in planning events for the upcoming school year! As a TMA AmeriCorps VISTA member, Dainia will strengthen Coppin's civic engagement infrastructure by expanding community partnerships, assessing student interests, and developing sustainable service-learning programs. Her work will help students connect with meaningful service, volunteerism, and career exposure opportunities—advancing education as a powerful tool to combat poverty. We’re excited to see the impact she’ll make in the year ahead!
The Call to Serve: Coppin Alumna Dainia Higgins Fuels Community Engagement
As a recent graduate and former student leader at Coppin State, Dainia Higgins knew her campus well. Now, as the TMA/Coppin State Student Experience VISTA, she's channeling that insight into powerful action, ensuring current students get to experience meaningful service. Her work centers on building systems that last, creating pathways for lasting community engagement.
Dainia quickly established a biweekly reading partnership, bringing Coppin students to Matthew A. Henson Elementary School to assist in classrooms. This program creates a steady, reliable bridge between the university and its local neighbors.
Her organizational skills truly shone when she planned a community blood drive with the American Red Cross and helped organize the HBCU Day of Service with the Mayor's Office. She and her fellow student leaders knew the desire to serve was strong, but even Dainia was surprised by the response.
"I never thought I could have an event and over 30 students volunteer," Dainia shared. "It was a big shock, as I only expected 10 to 15.
"That overwhelming turnout confirmed the success of her work. By building clear, easy pathways for service, Dainia has turned student interest into sustainable community action.
"My VISTA experience has been busy, but very rewarding," she reflects. Dainia's impact will continue to be felt long after her term ends, as the structures she's put in place ensure service remains a vibrant part of the Coppin State student experience, advancing education as a powerful tool to combat poverty.