UM-Flint's Neely overcomes tragedy to be named Maize & Blue Distinguished Scholar

"I knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was 4 years old, so I started at community college, but my education was put on the back burner after my brother was murdered," said Tyena Neely, a Winter 2025 Maize & Blue Distinguished Scholar and elementary education major from Flint. "I am a first-generation college student, and I didn't have a lot of opportunities growing up. I often didn't feel safe doing things, experimenting or failing. After my brother's death, I struggled to get back into college. I was scared, but I knew I wanted to start fresh. I reached out to Linda Blakey in the Education Department, and she set up the steps to help me get back on track with my college studies. She helped me by setting up connections so I wouldn't feel alone." 

One of the connections that Neely developed during her time at the University of Michigan-Flint was with assistant professor of education Jeramy Donovan.

"As someone who attended the same Flint inner-city public school as Tyena Neely — albeit many years earlier — I know firsthand the challenges of transitioning from that environment to a university setting. Students from schools like ours often face systemic barriers and are not always afforded the same resources or opportunities as their peers," said Donovan. "That's why Tyena's success is so significant. She didn't just navigate college — she excelled. Tyena is academically gifted, intellectually curious and incredibly dedicated to her craft. I've seen her shine as a leader during our study abroad program in the Netherlands. That experience was a turning point for her — it expanded her worldview and fueled her confidence as an educator. She brings compassion, creativity and a powerful sense of purpose into every space she enters. Tyena is a brilliant example of what's possible when determination meets opportunity and I couldn't be prouder of all she has achieved."

Before the study abroad program, Neely hadn't traveled outside the state.

"That experience had a major impact on me, it opened my eyes up — not just the 15-hour flight or the fact that the two-week trip was the first time I had been away from my mom and twin sister for an extended amount of time, but also seeing the ocean, visiting world-reknowned museums, exploring the campuses of international universities," she said. "I had a lot of anxiety beforehand, but that experience gave me so much more confidence in myself."

"Tyena is an incredible student who continues to be determined to succeed despite life's challenges. I'm so excited to watch her career take off and to see her become a compassionate leader in her community," said Tracy Foster, field experience coordinator in the Education Department. "Students and families need passionate educators like her. She always has a smile and always looks for the positive in life. She truly would do anything for anyone. Tyena is the type of person we need in education. She is highly compassionate, able to relate to everyone and understands that all students have different needs and situations."

As Neely worked hard to achieve her goal of becoming a teacher, she experienced another tragedy: Her fiancé was murdered in March.

"After all I had been through, I wanted to give up, but the support system here on campus, and from my family, has been amazing," Neely said. "Being named a Maize & Blue Distinguished Scholar is an honor, especially since my journey throughout college has felt rough, but the moment I heard about this award, it was like a light bulb turned on. Recognition for all of my hard work and everything that I've been through is amazing."

As part of the Future Teacher Organization, Neely was deeply involved in arranging guest speakers and volunteering at events like Inclusive Halloween. "We did a lot of community service activities like a diaper drive or making things for local teachers, and that organization helped me build connections with other future teachers and also within the community," said Neely. "It helped me build life skills and confidence, and I feel ready. UM-Flint has given me what I need to succeed."

While Neely considers attending graduate school in the future, she is currently focused on launching her career as an educator. She is planning to begin teaching third grade this fall. 

"Tyena is happiest in the classroom with her students! She has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and leads with positivity," said Jenelle Allen, lecturer I in education. "Tyena finds joyful moments to celebrate every single day."

"The best advice I can give is to keep going, and to realize that sometimes doors have to close for new ones to open," Neely said. "I hope to be that encouraging voice for my students, reminding them they can achieve big dreams. If I can do it, they can do it."