Alumni Spotlight: Krystal Wilson

Krystal Wilson, center, with professors Scott and Gina Jensen

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Meet Krystal Wilson, who earned a BA in Speech Communication Studies from Webster in 2023, serves on the Alumni Board of Directors and is a current supporter of the University.

What enticed you to choose Webster University for your degree?

The balance of academic rigor and flexibility it offered. As a first-generation student navigating both work and school, I needed a program that was both supportive and challenging. Webster’s strong reputation, smaller class sizes and professors who genuinely invest in their students made me feel seen, not just like a number. Financially, the opportunities for scholarships and the ability to tailor my schedule made it realistic for me to complete my degree while working. Professionally, Webster’s emphasis on leadership and real-world application aligned perfectly with my long-term goal of building a career in health care administration.

What stood out about your studies at Webster?

The personal connection with faculty who genuinely wanted to see me succeed. As a first-generation student, their encouragement carried a lot of weight. I still remember professors who took the time to connect classroom concepts to real-world challenges in health care and leadership. Group projects also gave me the chance to learn from classmates with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, which shaped how I approach teamwork today. Those relationships and moments of support made Webster feel less like a school and more like a community invested in my growth.

How did your Webster degree help advance you in your career?

My Webster degree in Speech Communication Studies advanced my career by giving me a strong foundation in both verbal and nonverbal communication, something that has been essential in every role I’ve taken on. The program helped me become a more confident speaker, an active listener and a clear communicator — skills that are critical in health care and leadership. It also taught me how to connect with diverse groups of people, whether I am supporting patients, collaborating with colleagues or leading teams. Most importantly, my Webster experience gave me the confidence to pursue my Master of Healthcare Administration and to see myself as a future leader in my field.

Why is supporting Webster important to you?

Because the University played such a key role in shaping my journey as a first-generation graduate. Webster gave me more than just a degree — it gave me confidence, lifelong skills and a community that believed in me. By giving back, I hope to help open doors for other students who may be balancing work, family and school just like I did. Supporting Webster means investing in future leaders and making sure more students have the chance to finish strong, no matter how delayed or challenging their path may be.

What makes Webster a special place for you?

The incredible people who shaped my experience. Having professors like Scott and Gina Jensen made the classroom feel inspiring and supportive, and their teaching left a lasting impact on me. I also built meaningful bonds with Dr. Colette Cummings, Associate Dean of Students, who has continued to stay in touch and to encourage me even after graduation. Those relationships went beyond academics — they reminded me that Webster is a community that invests in its students for life.

What is your favorite spot on campus?

My favorite spot on campus has always been the School of Communications — it felt like home and kept me motivated. I also loved grabbing meals at Marletto’s, where I could connect with friends and classmates between classes. Another favorite place was the Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs House, which was a space that reminded me of community, culture and belonging. Each of these spots holds memories that made my time at Webster meaningful.

What is something valuable you’ve learned in your career?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my career is that resilience and communication go hand in hand. Challenges will always come, but how you respond — and how you communicate with others during those moments — can shift outcomes in powerful ways. I’ve also learned that leadership is less about having all the answers and more about listening, building trust and helping people feel seen and supported. Those lessons guide me daily in both my professional goals and personal growth.

What has your life journey looked like?

I grew up in Pagedale, Missouri, and now I live in Florissant. My life journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth every step. As a thyroid cancer survivor now celebrating four years cancer free, I’ve learned the power of perseverance and faith. That same resilience carried me through my degree at Webster and continues to guide me in graduate school and my career. I want current students to know that even when the path feels delayed or difficult, it is still possible to finish strong.

How do you spend your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy serving with my sorority, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. - Alpha Zeta Chapter, where sisterhood and community service keep me connected and inspired. I also love crafting and creating different projects, especially ones that allow me to blend creativity with purpose. Singing is another passion of mine; it gives me joy and a sense of expression that balances my busy professional and academic life.

Is there anything else you want to share?

Webster will always hold a special place in my heart and soul. It’s where I found my voice, strengthened my resilience and proved to myself that I could finish what I started. As a first-generation graduate, Webster is not just part of my story, it is a reminder that with support, determination and faith, dreams really can become reality.