Founder and President, HBCU Club of Muskegon

Tarra Carson understands firsthand just how imperative mentorship is in guiding and growing individuals, personally and professionally. As Founder and President of HBCU Club of Muskegon, Tarra has mentored over 250 students in the West Michigan area since 2019, from middle and high school graduates to students who are currently working on their PhDs. The program helps prepare students who are interested in college, specifically at a Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

A second-generation HBCU graduate from Grambling State University and mother of three, Tarra’s accolades and volunteer efforts on boards and advisory committees are expansive, including the 2024 United Way of the Lakeshore Everyday Hero and Community Builder Award and sitting on the Step Up Muskegon board. She serves her community as a member of the Theta Chi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and often presents and facilitates at out-of-school time conferences and workshops.

Tarra says, “From my experience, I’ve learned that mentoring is not only about passing knowledge, it’s about establishing a connection, relationship, and assisting people to reach their full potential. I get the most satisfaction when I see my mentees excelling due to the mentorship I offered.”