Humans of NGU: Morgan Dickerson
Juliana Hernandez, Contributing Writer
Photo by Juliana Hernandez
Morgan Dickerson, a North Greenville University central associate, enjoys guiding students through their journey in college. Dickerson isn’t just the person behind the desk at NGU Central, she’s often the reason students keep going when college feels overwhelming. Dickerson provides support to not only students, but also to parents, alumni, faculty and guests at the heart of NGU.
Dickerson grew up in South Carolina, 15 minutes from NGU. She graduated from NGU in 2023 with a business administration major and a digital media minor. She now lives in North Carolina and dog sits outside of work hours. She is introverted and working at NGU central has really helped her open up, but she said she still likes to wind down alone at her house.
Walking in with questions and confusion, students look to Dickerson and the other staff at NGU central.
She said, “My favorite part of my job are the little things students say to me, like ‘You are the reason I am graduating’ or ‘You helped me so much! Thank you!’”
Dickerson talks with so many people in a day, and it can be hard at times because she said she is a very introverted person. But these comments show that she’s a reason they made it through.
One of Dickerson’s most memorable experiences came when a student walked in overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. Dickerson invited her to pull up a chair to her desk so she could assist. They were sitting there for 30 minutes working through forms and answering questions. Joan, another associate of NGU central, came over and lightened the moment. Joan pinned a “medal” on Dickerson’s shirt in recognition of her patience and persistence. When the forms were finally complete, the student left feeling relieved and grateful.
Dickerson was reminded that small moments of encouragement can make a big impact. Her persistence in moments like that makes students feel supported and reminds her that small acts can be lifelines.
Dickerson’s job is very rewarding but harder than what people may think. She has to deal with a lot of frustration in people. For instance, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is a law that protects the privacy of student education records. The students have to give permission to let others, including parents, view their records. One of Dickerson’s most challenging parts of her job is managing the situation where the students never filled out a form so their parents can view their records. Because of this parents call and are frustrated that they cannot see their child’s records. She must talk with them and explain why this happens. She understands their frustration but has to follow the rules of this law. Even in tension filled situations, she reminds herself that she has to remain calm. Dickerson is a steady reason students and families can trust NGU Central.
Another way Dickerson contributes to the Tigerville community is by using her digital media minor. She designs flyers and works with graphics and photography which contributes to the department. She plays a big role in the check-in process and welcoming new students. The photos and details she creates make a difference for the faculty and students at NGU. Those “small touches” are another way she quietly keeps students going, even if they don’t always realize it.
Looking back on her own NGU journey, Dickerson recalls being a hesitant freshman.
“I was a scared freshman.” she said, “So my advice is it is okay to be scared, but there are always people to help you, so reach out to them.”
Today she encourages students to get the help they need and to ask questions. She is that helping hand. Whether by phone, email, or in person, she spends her days supporting the NGU community with her quiet strength. For many students, she’s more than just an associate at NGU Central, she’s a reason for them to keep going.
