Senior Spotlight: DeShawn Manley and Blair Presley

DeShawn Manley, senior public relations major, has enjoyed the relational side of cheering in her seven years of experience.

“Cheering to me is an opportunity to do something I love while showing support to the Union athletics and school as a whole,” Manley said. “Union’s cheer squad has further extended the sense of community that Union instills in its students.”

Manley loves being around other people and building relationships, and cheering gives her the opportunity while promoting the “community.”

Being involved in interpersonal ways has influenced Manley’s choices over the years. Originally an accounting major, she decided to pursue something more align with her gifts.

“I have always been a people person and have loved learning about the art of interpersonal communication,” Manley said.

On campus, she is also involved in other team focused organizations: the Public Relations Student Society of America and the Cardinal and Cream.

In her spare time, Manley enjoys going to concerts, exploring new places and being sure to “make little moments extraordinary.”

Blair Presley

Blair Presley, senior social work major, has 14 years of cheer experience.

“I love being into the game and really cheering my heart out,” Presley said. “I enjoy showing school spirit and entertaining the crowd.”

Presley enjoys cheering, but it is the friendships from Union’s squad that has meant the most.

According to Presley, the support of her friends is what encouraged her involvement at Union.

Currently, she also enjoys working as Sun Tan City’s assistant salon director.

Presley has also had several jobs and heavy class loads every semester.

Although difficult, “my hard work is allowing me to graduate a year early,” Presley said.

After graduation, Presley plans to get married, get a job in Jackson and start a family.

Presley claims her daily viewpoints are to “enjoy each day, give it all you have and just live.”