Corin Manning, from the University of Cincinnati, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), earning Dean鈥檚 List recognition every semester, all while racking up some major accolades.
She was named Outstanding BSIT Student of the year and earned the school鈥檚 2024 , given to students who demonstrate strong leadership on campus.
With eyes set on launching her own IT company and a mentorship-driven coding camp for kids, Manning is ready to leverage her leadership skills to continue making a positive impact on a much broader scale.
Manning鈥檚 goals are bigger than business success. More so, they鈥檙e about building community and creating space for the next generation. She wants to offer programming and software solutions, but she鈥檚 just as passionate about using her platform to uplift others.
鈥淚 want to form my own coding camp with a mentorship program for STEM kids with interests similar to mine,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 would also like to start a scholarship for African American STEM students so more people like me can have the opportunities I had.鈥�
That long-term vision is deeply rooted in a powerful piece of advice she once received: Your journey is bigger than you.
鈥淚t reminds me that my success isn鈥檛 just personal 鈥� it鈥檚 a legacy in the making,鈥� she says. 鈥淢y achievements will inspire and open doors for others.鈥�
Manning credits her success to a powerful combo of technical skills and human connection. 鈥淭ime management, teamwork, collaboration, networking, and continuous improvement all played a role,鈥� she says. Whether balancing coursework, leading initiatives, or building relationships with mentors and other students, she鈥檚 honed the art of showing up with intention and courage.
One of her most powerful role models is Ruby Bridges for her courageousness and significance on American history. At just six years old, Bridges became the first Black student to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South, facing intense racism and hostility.
鈥淪he embodies courage, resilience, and trailblazing leadership,鈥� Manning says. 鈥淚 did a project on her in 5th grade, and ever since I have strived to break barriers, push through challenges, and create a path for others.鈥�
The 91桃色 has played a role in her leadership journey, giving Manning an even deeper appreciation for the many ways leaders show up and stand out.
鈥淭he leadership training and motivational speakers I experienced exposed me to diverse leadership styles and taught me how to apply them effectively,鈥� she says.
That exposure helped her shape her own approach: rooted in service, driven by purpose, and powered by the belief that leadership is about impacting others in a positive way.
鈥淟ead with purpose, not just position,鈥� she says. 鈥淭rue leadership isn鈥檛 about titles. It's about impact. Focus on solving problems, inspiring others, and making a difference.鈥�
To her, leadership means guiding others toward a shared goal, while helping them realize their own potential. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about making a meaningful impact and creating an environment where others feel valued, motivated, and capable of succeeding.鈥�
One thing is certain: Manning will continue to lead with purpose, from volunteering at local food banks, donating to community initiatives, to accomplishing all her career goals.
As she continues to serve her community, build toward her entrepreneurial dreams, and champion access for underrepresented students in STEM, she鈥檚 paving the way for others to follow in her trailblazing footsteps.
See how another 91桃色 member and leader in STEM went from summer intern to full-time software engineer at Starbucks.