REAGAN BRANUM

Finding Her Light at York University

Reagan Branum, a rising senior from Spearfish, South Dakota, embodies the transformative journey many students experience at York University. While her freshman year began with contemplation of transferring, a snowball effect of countless positive encounters ultimately cemented her connection to York. Initially hesitant and unsure, she found her footing through the support of faculty, friends, and faith, transforming York into her second home.

The sense of belonging Reagan now feels is deeply rooted in the mentorship and support she has received at YU. York University's faculty have been instrumental in shaping her path, particularly Dr. Garrett Best, chair of the Bible and ministry department, whom she describes as an impactful mentor. "He saw qualities in me that I didn’t see in myself," she shares, crediting his constant encouragement and advice as pivotal. Reagan also reflects on a critical “aha” moment last semester when she struggled with mental and academic challenges. Reaching out to trusted faculty, including Dr. Best and a psychology professor, was transformative. With their guidance, she gained the tools and confidence to overcome her struggles, helping her realize her inherent worth and potential. “He said, there's no limit to what you're going to do. You've always shown the light of Christ, but now you can see how you're shining.” This turning point further deepened her sense of belonging at York. Mr. Brian Gilchriest '01, her education professor, played an equally vital role, offering the blunt but affirming words she needed to alleviate her self-doubt about becoming a teacher despite her past academic challenges: "You deserve to be here, and you are going to be a good teacher." These moments of affirmation gave her the confidence to embrace her calling. Reagan’s career aspirations as an English teacher and youth minister are deeply personal and intertwined.

Growing up in a church plant led by her father, Reagan witnessed the challenges smaller churches face in providing dedicated youth leadership. This inspired her to serve as a bridge, combining her love for teaching with her passion for ministry. As a double major in secondary education, English, and Biblical studies with an emphasis on youth and family ministries, Reagan strategically views teaching as a “big kid job” that will offer financial stability while enabling her to “bless churches” and connect with young people in meaningful ways. “Finances in churches are tough, especially in church plants; they can barely afford to just survive, let alone hire people in the first few years. So I just have a heart to help in those situations.”

Her passion for youth led her to spend the last two summers, 14 weeks total, counseling at 11 church camps across the Midwest. “My time at camps has shown me the passion that the younger generation has for God. I get to be a part of their journey as they ask questions and grow in their faith. It impacts my faith to see how on fire they are for God,” said Reagan. “It also encourages me in my abilities to lead and blesses me to both be poured into as I’m pouring into others.”

Additionally, Reagan’s participation in the dance program has been a significant avenue for personal growth. Stepping into the program as a freshman, Reagan joined a team that had just secured a conference championship title, setting a new standard of excellence for her to strive toward. During her time on the team, they have achieved another conference championship and two runner-up titles. Reflecting on her journey, Reagan shares, “Being part of the dance program has pushed me to grow not only as a dancer but as a teammate and leader. It’s given me the confidence to approach challenges in life with determination and a belief in my ability to succeed.”

Central to her experience at York is the Colis and Delores Campbell Activity Center, her favorite spot on campus. It’s a place of daily chapel, dance practice, and Songfest rehearsals—a space where tears and laughter have intertwined, and where her journey of growth and faith has been most evident. To Reagan, the building symbolizes the holistic York experience: a blend of spiritual, personal, and academic growth.

Reflecting on her journey, Reagan hopes to “love on the school as much as the school has loved on me.” Her advice to new students is simple but profound: “Get involved.” She believes that separating academics from the rich community experience at York is a missed opportunity for growth. Her passion for York’s mission drives her to recruit the next generation of students, including her younger brother, who will join her this fall.

Reagan cherishes York’s commitment to meeting students where they are and helping them find their purpose. Her grounding Bible verse, Isaiah 43:1-2, encapsulates her transformation, reminding her that "fear has no control" and that she is “protected by someone who knows exactly who I am and loves me for who I am.” For Reagan, York is more than a university—it’s the place that has equipped her to step boldly into her future, confident and ready to shine her light wherever she goes.

By Eryn Conyers '16