Anitra Brown ’95, Malana Joseph Mitchell ’05, and Arian Pierre ’15 are graduates with degrees in Mass Communication. Their journeys via The Avenue of The Oaks have led to their return to the gleaming white and spacious green in some capacity.
Brown was recently on campus to interview President Ford for a feature story in The New Orleans Tribune.
Anitra Brown is a highly talented and experienced managing editor for The New Orleans Tribune, known for her fresh ideas and exceptional skills in journalism. With a background as a government beat reporter and experience at esteemed publications such as The Myrtle Beach Sun News, Thibodaux Daily Comet, and The Houston Chronicle, Anitra brings a wealth of knowledge to her role at The Tribune. Additionally, she has taught journalism at various colleges and universities, emphasizing her dedication to the field. Anitra’s professional expertise, passion, and commitment have made her an invaluable asset to The Tribune, playing a vital role in shaping the publication’s editorial focus.
Malana Joseph Mitchell is the Vice President of Public Relations at The Spears Group. In 2011, Malana joined the Spears Group and quickly became known for her effective marketing strategies. Her exceptional work on the Urban League’s RISE: Katrina 10 Commemorative Conference helped the firm receive the prestigious Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), recognizing its outstanding achievements. Malana’s dedication and talent have earned her numerous accolades throughout her career.
Mitchell also serves as an adjunct professor in the Mass Communication department. Last semester, her MAC 424 students developed an integrated campaign for Lorenzo’s Frozen Pudding through the HBCU Masterclass in Public Relations in partnership with Rebecca Rousell ’06 and Current Global. Her students had the opportunity to apply their classroom learning in a practical experience.
Arian Pierre has been a member of the Office of Communications and Marketing team since October 2020 as the Social Media Coordinator. As of July 1, 2023, she was appointed Assistant Director of Marketing and Social Media Specialist.
At Dillard University, Arian is responsible for developing social media strategies, creating digital and print collateral, and managing the university’s online presence across various platforms, including Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok. She is adept at creating engaging content and managing digital campaigns to effectively communicate with the university’s audience.
We are grateful to these alumni for giving their talent to further the mission of Dillard. They are a source of inspiration and motivation to our Mass Communication students. Seeing fellow graduates succeed in their chosen fields can instill confidence and belief in one’s abilities.
Our alumni are living proof that the education and skills acquired during college can pave the way for fulfilling and successful careers. Their stories remind our students that one can achieve one’s professional goals with passion, hard work, and perseverance.
