Angél LaShae McClelland, Executive Vice President of the Associated Student Organization at Los Angeles Southwest College (LASC), has been recognized as the Student Spotlight of the Week. McClelland is currently working toward an associate degree in Business Administration and plans to transfer to a historically Black college or university, with Clark Atlanta University as her top choice.
McClelland’s journey includes overcoming significant challenges. After experiencing a difficult childhood and serving 16 years in prison, she has spent the past 15 months rebuilding her life. She credits her faith and the influence of her late grandmother and mother for motivating her. “Everything I do, I do in their honor. And I know I can’t do anything without God,” she said.
Despite setbacks such as being hit by a car last December, McClelland completed her finals from the hospital and earned a place on the Dean’s List. She participates actively on campus through programs like Umoja, student government leadership roles, peer mentoring, and also works as a manager at a local juice lounge.
She shared advice for others facing difficulties: “When you take the time to invest in yourself, it will come back. You might not see it now, but it will show later.”
Looking ahead, McClelland hopes to earn advanced degrees in psychology and be known as Dr. McClelland—a goal that reflects her commitment to transformation and helping others.
