Elizabeth City, N.C. — They call her the career-pivot guru, and she gives credit for that ability to Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). ECSU graduate Danielle Graves ‘05—now an executive career coach and author—earned a national spotlight Nov. 13 when Essence featured her in its story, “Beyond Howard and Hampton: Discover 15 Other HBCUs You Should Know and Meet Their Accomplished Alumni.”
Graves, who earned a degree in Applied Mathematics after beginning as a Computer Science major, told Essence that she owes a debt of gratitude to ECSU for teaching her “how and when to pivot—even when it’s unpopular.” Her story comes with a record of accomplishments that speak for themselves. She went from campus to serving as an analyst with the FBI, to business leadership and coaching, and finally penned her book The Six-Figure Quitter.
In her interview with Essence, Graves credited ECSU with giving her “everything I didn’t know I needed to compete for the most coveted jobs—and win.” She highlighted the scholarships curated by faculty and staff, and the support she received to succeed, debt-free. For Graves, ECSU was the foundation of her confidence, versatility and resilience.
Her remarks to Essence reveal a hidden truth: many historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) beyond the usual familiar names are quietly producing extraordinary professionals who are reshaping industries. ECSU’s place in that narrative is proven through Graves’s inclusion in the article and through her example. Graves’s story also offers a message to current and prospective ECSU students to not fear changing their course.
For the ECSU community—alumni, students, faculty and staff—this recognition in Essence presents a reason to celebrate. It is proof that ECSU’s impact extends beyond the region, and its graduates are thriving in diverse arenas. Graves’s success reflects the university’s ability to nurture adaptability and ambition. These qualities matter in a rapidly changing world.
Graves took the time out of her schedule to speak with ECSU’s Office of Communication and Marketing, reflecting on the beginning of her journey and the forces that shaped her career path.
Every success story has a starting point. For Graves, what made ECSU the place where hers began was the trifecta—location, money, and her desire to attend an HBCU. According to Graves, ECSU offered her the best financial aid package and it wasn't too far away from Hampton, her hometown.
“It honestly felt like home during campus tours,” she said.
When asked what advice she would offer ECSU students who feel uncertain about their career direction, Graves shared a message rooted in clarity and compassion. “Four things,” she said. “First, give yourself grace while you're in this space of uncertainty. Second, begin with the end in mind. Map out what your dream life and career look like (without judgment) and then reverse engineer what it will take to make it a reality. Third, make unapologetic decisions today that align with where you ultimately want to go and who you ultimately want to be. Fourth, when you make it to the top, don't forget about me!”
She also reflected on the support and mentorship that shaped her professional identity. “My Viking village was incredible as a student. However, if there's one callout to make, it's Dr. Linda Hayden and the Office of Naval Research (ONR) Scholarship Program,” she said. “Dr. Hayden's vision, mentorship, leadership, guidance, care and generosity changed the trajectory of my life—personally, professionally and financially—for the better. I came to ECSU to discover and undoubtedly left well-equipped to conquer as an ONR Scholar!”
As Graves continues to coach professionals through career transitions and publish work that empowers others to take leaps, her roots at ECSU remain central. In her own words: “I am forever indebted to the faculty and staff,” for the foundational support that echoes in every chapter of her career story.
To read the full story, visit Essence.com’s education feature here.