Kennedi Bates

Kennedi Bates ’25 gave herself a mission and chose to accept it: “Leave Winthrop University better than how I found it.”

Mission accomplished! Bates walked across the Coliseum stage in December, earning a Bachelor of Arts in political science and sociology with minors in legal studies, philosophy and communications.

So how did she complete that mission? By leading and uplifting her fellow Eagles.

“When I think of a true leader, I think of someone who puts others before themself,” Bates said. “Since arriving at Winthrop University, I strived to do exactly that, continuously pouring into my university even when my own cup felt empty.”

Originally from the small country town of Blair, South Carolina, Bates arrived in Rock Hill with “big dreams and a lot to prove…to myself most of all.” She quickly immersed herself into campus activities, including serving as the Student Government Association’s election commissioner (then known as the Council of Student Leaders); as president of the university’s NAACP chapter; in various leadership roles in the Mu Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; and as a delegate for Model United Nations.

Off campus, Bates dove deeper into the political atmosphere, working as secretary for the Fairfield Democratic Party and then as an assistant for South Carolina congressional candidate Evangeline Hundley. She also shadowed S.C. Rep. Annie McDaniel.

Her biggest break came when she was selected for the Congressman James E. Clyburn Political Fellowship, learning more about leadership, policy research, campaign strategy, voter education and community outreach.

“Winthrop gave me more than an education,” Bates said. “It gave me purpose and a community. It challenged me to think critically, lead boldly and speak with intention. It taught me that growth isn’t always comfortable, but it is always worth it.”