With a dad who was a student, Justina DeMott lived at the University for two years as a baby with her parents. She’s been told of being transported around in baby carriers and chairs as her father cross-country skied in the Nature Preserve and bicycled on campus.
“I’ve just been destined to come to Binghamton ever since I was little,” said the 21-year-old English major from Bainbridge, N.Y.
Now a senior, DeMott has made her mark at Binghamton by exemplifying campus pride.
She has been active in campus life as a resident assistant in Newing College, where she is living for the fourth year. She has held leadership positions in the North East Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls (NEARHU) and the Student Association, served as a tour guide and taken part in Homecoming activities.
Last fall, DeMott planned the Snow Ball, a campus-wide, semi-formal dance that collected toys, food and money for organizations including Toys for Tots and the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse (CHOW). The idea came to DeMott after bringing a friend from Miami with her to her small hometown.
“I thought it would be nice if there was a way we could bring the whole campus together and not compete,” she said, adding that a second Snow Ball is being planned.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed by Sarah Courtney, resident director of Newing.
“I’m very energized and inspired by her creativity and her ability to reach people,” Courtney said. “People gravitate toward her.”
DeMott, who wants to stay in higher education by becoming a resident director, believes showing campus spirit should be part of the college experience.
“If you go somewhere, you should love it,” she said. “I love this school. I’ve gone places and done things I didn’t think I could do when I came here. Why not love it back and show spirit and pride?”
