Each year, the Brooklyn College Alumni Association presents awards to selected alumni for their distinguished careers and outstanding achievements. Eight individuals are being honored this year with the Alumni of the Year award, the Distinguished Achievement Award, the Young Alumni Award, and the Jerome S. Milgram Award for distinguished service in advancing the Alumni Association and its activities on behalf of Brooklyn College.

Visionary leader and DACA recipient Kelly D. Harry ’15 has overcome systemic challenges to make a significant impact. The proud graduate of Brooklyn College began her career at CNN and later held leadership roles at FOX, NBC Universal/Telemundo, and Publicis Media, where she drove marketing initiatives that amplified marginalized voices. Education has always been her path forward, and she has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for herself. She earned scholarships, pursued dual degrees, and built a career that blends media, finance, and strategy. Harry has collaborated with brands like CNN, NBC, CNBC, and U.S. Bank, and she has led advertising strategies for Fortune 500 companies at Publicis Media. Every step of her journey—from overcoming the barriers of being undocumented to securing leadership roles in her industry—has reinforced her belief that no obstacle is insurmountable when you refuse to be defined by your circumstances.

Can you tell us about your background?

I was born in Trinidad and immigrated to the United States as a child. My journey has been one of perseverance, faith, and relentless ambition. In 2012, I went to Washington, D.C., to lobby for DACA, speaking with congressmen and assemblymen to advocate for the rights of undocumented youth. When the policy became law, it wasn’t just a victory for me—it was proof that resilience and collective action could change lives.

What decided you on Brooklyn College?

Brooklyn College is more than just a school—it is a gateway to opportunity, a place where ambition meets access. With a legacy of producing Pulitzer Prize winners, groundbreaking journalists, and industry leaders, it is a beacon for those who dare to dream big despite their circumstances. I wanted to be part of that tradition.

The Magner Career Center played a pivotal role in my journey, connecting me with mentors and career-building opportunities. The rigorous academic programs pushed me to think critically and strategically, and the diverse student body exposed me to perspectives that broadened my understanding of the world.

Did you enter college knowing what career you wanted?

I had a strong interest in both finance and media. I wasn’t entirely sure how to merge the two, but I remained open to opportunities. Through internships, networking, and hands-on experience, I discovered my strength in strategy—understanding audiences, crafting narratives, and leveraging media to drive impact. That realization led me to build a career where I’ve been able to work in both fields, blending analytical thinking with creativity in a way that felt natural.

Can you tell us some favorite memories of the college? Did you have any mentors?

A pivotal experience was my time at the Magner Career Center. I made it a point to introduce myself to [Executive Director] Natalia [Guarin-Klein] and the team, build a rapport, and schedule career conversations. Over time, I gained guidance on my résumé, interview skills, and professional development. I shared my aspirations with Natalia, who introduced me to Myron Kandel [’52]—a cofounder of CNN and its longtime financial editor and economic commentator. That was a connection that changed everything.

Myron and I met at the Applebee’s off-campus, where he reviewed my résumé and shared invaluable wisdom. Because of Myron and the Magner Center, I landed my first job at CNN—just a week after receiving my work permit. For someone who had lived in uncertainty for so long, that moment was life-changing.

Did you receive any scholarships, fellowships, or awards while at Brooklyn College?

I was fortunate to receive multiple scholarships, which allowed me to focus on my studies and career development. These weren’t just financial lifelines—they were affirmations that my hard work and perseverance mattered.

Can you give us some highlights of life after college?

After graduating, I became an account executive at Fox, working in ad sales—a fast-paced and competitive industry that was both challenging and exhilarating. Later, I transitioned to the agency side and joined Publicis Media, the number-one media agency in the world. There, I managed advertising campaigns for major brands like Be The Match, USAA, Luxottica, and Marriott.

Today, I am a vice president in the banking industry and also do consulting work, helping businesses refine their marketing strategies. Beyond my career, I remain an advocate for immigration rights and financial literacy. Becoming a homeowner was another major milestone—one that felt especially significant given that, just a few years ago, DACA recipients weren’t even eligible for traditional home loans. In my free time, I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and continuing to challenge myself in new ways.

What advice would you give to today’s students?

You can have all the talent in the world, but if you lack integrity, if you don’t treat people well, if you’re only focused on what you can get rather than what you can give, eventually, that will catch up to you.

The relationships you build, the way you show up for others, and the reputation you create will often take you further than any résumé ever could.

Life isn’t just about chasing success; it’s about living in a way that makes success a natural byproduct. Be someone who uplifts others, who gives without expecting immediate returns, who operates with honesty and good character. When you do that, you’ll find that the right opportunities, the right people, and the right moments will always find their way to you. At the end of the day, real success isn’t just about what you accomplish—it’s about the impact you leave behind.