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Valedictorian Spotlight: Rylan Bagsby’s Journey of Creativity and Service
Posted on Dec 05, 2024
From his first steps on the Fort Valley State University campus, Rylan Bagsby, a Media Studies major from McDonough, Georgia, set out to make a difference for himself and those around him. Now, as a graduating senior and valedictorian, Rylan’s story reflects a journey of creativity and empowerment.
Rylan has always believed that true success lies in using one’s talents to uplift others. Throughout his time at FVSU, this belief became his guiding principle. “The key to achieving your goals is to empower others to reach theirs,” he says. “Helping people find their voice is one of the most rewarding things you can do.”
His work as a graphic designer brought this thinking to life. Early on, Rylan was tasked with designing the program cover for the Twelfth Annual Research Day, creating a visual concept that captured the event’s academic spirit. His talents also played a pivotal role in initiatives like Campus Votes, where he developed posters to inspire civic engagement among students.
Rylan’s passion for graphic design extended beyond campus. He rebranded the logo for the AAMI Boys to Men Organization and designed flyers for their events, including the spring 2024 Basketball Homecoming. Off-campus, his creativity left a mark on small businesses like Mama Mae Bay’s LLC, Pro-Terrains Landscaping and schools like Harris County Carver Middle School and Clayton State University.
Rylan’s impact is not limited to his designs. His leadership, drive, and commitment to service have made him a role model for his peers. His advice to future Wildcats reflects the wisdom he has gained along the way: "Be true to yourself. People will always have different perspectives of you, but as long as you take the time to love yourself, show respect to others and adapt to life's challenges, you'll be just fine. Celebrate the small victories along the way. The right people will be drawn to you—whether as a lesson or a blessing, there’s always a reason behind it."
As he prepares to graduate, Rylan is excited about the future. He plans to join the HBCU GO Program production team and is seeking opportunities in public relations while growing his business, BagsbyVisuals. Graduate school is also on the horizon as he works toward advancing his career in digital communications.
Reflecting on his time at FVSU, Rylan says, "I am thankful for my friends and professors, who have played a crucial role in shaping my character. They’ve taught me valuable lessons and encouraged me to be more open-minded. Their support has opened doors to opportunities I never imagined, from joining organizations to taking on new roles. I wouldn’t be here without them."
Rylan Bagsby’s journey is one of talent, determination, and service. As he steps into the next chapter of his life, he carries the values and experiences that define what it means to be a Wildcat.
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