Spring 2024 Commencement: Kiya Browning’s Journey of Resilience and Achievement

Navy veteran overcomes lupus diagnosis to pursue accounting degree while embracing Black excellence at Tri-C

Kiya Browning is no stranger to overcoming challenges. A Navy veteran, Browning’s time in the military was cut short due to a lupus diagnosis. She decided to chart a new path for herself, driven by a desire to showcase Black excellence and empower future generations.  

Her new path included enrolling at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) in Fall 2022 to pursue a degree in accounting. Browning, 34, said she chose Tri-C because it felt the most personable to her. After Tri-C, Browning plans on working as a payroll assistant and transferring to Cleveland State University to earn her bachelor's degree to become a certified professional accountant (CPA).  

“Tri-C has completely changed my life. Being able to attend school and pursue my degree while dealing with lupus has been the best experience of my life. I wouldn’t trade this moment for anything in the world,” she said.  

Browning will graduate with an Associate of Applied Business during the College’s Spring Commencement on May 17 at the Wolstein Center. 

Tell us about yourself. 

I am the oldest of five children. As a big sister, I strive to show my siblings that anything is possible when you are persistent and care about what you attach your name to. I was raised by my father and stepmother, who, despite my childhood traumas, have loved me and given me grace. My uniqueness is displayed in my everyday life. I walk differently and I talk differently because I'm not a crowd follower. I'm intentional with my words and I walk with my head held high. I aim to ooze Black excellence. In accounting, only 2% of CPAs are African American (data from What We Can Do To Increase the Number of Black CPAs — Journal of Accountancy podcast). 

Given my existing passion for math, I'm motivated to break barriers and demonstrate the magic of women of color. This new degree is a significant step toward achieving that goal. 

Describe your Tri-C experience. Has a specific person, class or event played a role in your success? 

My Tri-C experience was both eye-opening and rewarding. Assistant Professor Pamela Simmons taught me for two consecutive semesters, and she has become a cornerstone in my personal and professional life. I am forever indebted to her for all she has instilled in me. My Black American Council (BAC) mentor, Shari Brazile, has been consistent, knowledgeable, kind and graceful, and it was a pleasure being mentored by her. 

Do you participate in student life at Tri-C (or have you in the past)? If so, please describe your experiences. 

I participated in the BAC. The group helped me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself! I feel so much pride in saying I was a member.  

Do you have any pearls of wisdom to share with students considering a similar degree or certificate program? 

Always remember why you started, and keep that in the front of your mind when you want to throw in the towel. Surround yourself with classmates who have similar goals as you and cling to each other for support. And lastly, don’t be afraid to seek tutoring or ask your professors for help! That is what they are there for, and they want to help you at Tri-C.  

Tri-C will celebrate the academic achievements of its newest graduates during Commencement on May 17 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland. Check our News and Events page leading up to the event for more highlights from the Class of 2024.  

May 09, 2024

Dylanne Weese, 216-987-4281 or dylanne.weese@tri-c.edu