Alumna found voice, confidence, passion at USCA

Daniele Ligons knew she wanted it all: a great college experience at a campus close to home that would prepare her for the workforce by graduation day.

She found it – and more – at USCA.

“USCA felt like home. It was smaller than the other universities I had attended but had a great reputation. I knew graduates who had graduated and were working in their career fields, and that’s what I wanted,” the Class of ’12 alumna said.

While on campus, she majored in business with a concentration in marketing and got more than she originally bargained for but was thankful for it.

“USCA pushed me out of my comfort zone. I came in shy, but through internships, networking events and leadership opportunities, I found my voice." 

“That confidence followed me into my career. My internship through Career Services at Aiken Electric Cooperative changed everything. It’s where I discovered my passion for marketing and eventually worked my way up to become their marketing and strategic services manager,” Ligons said.

The internship led Ligons to landing a dream job in her major that kept her close to her home in Ridge Spring, South Carolina. In addition, the contacts she made at USCA helped her start her own businesses, one in 2020 and another one two years later.

She first launched Ligons Creative Co. The boutique marketing and design firm helps small businesses and nonprofits tell their story with “style and strategy.”

“I wanted to use my skills to help others shine. I’ve always loved branding, doing graphics, and connecting people, and this gave me the chance to combine all three,” Ligons said.  “Whether it’s branding, event planning, or community campaigns, my goal is to make every project not only look good but mean something.”

While she had thoughts for her own businesses, she needed a little support and guidance. Ligons credits resources found at the university with helping her turn ideas into profitable realities. The Small Business Development Center, located on campus, guided her through the process. Dr. Liz Stewart, a local entrepreneur, business leader and longtime supporter of the university who invests her time and resources into student success, also assisted Ligons. Stewart has been active on campus and in the School of Business Administration, inspiring and mentoring students in their entrepreneurial pursuits.

“Daniele has the focus and drive to be tremendously successful. It was a pleasure to help her get started,” Stewart said.

“I believe for those of us who have been successful entrepreneurs, it is an obligation for us to help young people get started and to be a shortcut for their success.”

Ligons encourages Pacers to consider tapping into the resources through the SOBA and university when starting their own businesses.

“I’m proof that you can build a career, a business and a life you love. Just stay focused and keep your eye on the end goal,” she said.

“Start where you are with what you have. Don’t wait until everything feels ‘perfect.’ It never will. Be consistent, be authentic, and remember that your story is your superpower. The same people watching you now will become your customers, cheerleaders, and collaborators later.”

Editor’s note: According to the U.S. State Department, November is National Entrepreneurship Month, “a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs who serve their communities and bolster the American economy.” This story is one in the “Making Our Way” series, celebrating USCA entrepreneurs.

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For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.