Courtesy of Alcorn State University
Alcorn alumna Tangela Parker was recently named airport director of marketing and brand services for the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
After 22 years of progressive leadership roles in the healthcare industry, Parker made the leap to aviation. In her current role, she oversees brand strategy, global marketing outreach, creative services, and advertising for the world’s busiest airport.
A native of Brandon, Mississippi, Parker got her start in marketing and communications after completing an internship with the Centers for Medicaid Services (CMS). Her plan was to attend law school once she completed her studies in political science, but she had a change of heart.
“My transition was unconventional,” said Parker. “My internship with CMS opened my eyes to the egregious healthcare disparities in Mississippi. I became enamored with understanding healthcare disparities and how they impacted the quality of life of Mississippians.”
Parker’s first job after completing her studies was as a public affairs specialist for the Mississippi Division of Medicaid.
“That’s where I enhanced my skillset in marketing and communications,” said Parker.
She defines the most rewarding aspect of her job as seeing its impact on people’s lives.
“When you roll out a marketing campaign — from it just being a thought to seeing it come to fruition, that is one of the most impactful and fulfilling feelings as a leader,” said Parker.
Throughout her career, she has made community service a priority. Parker is a member of numerous community and civic organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., National Association of Female Executives, Center Helping Obesity In Children End Successfully (C.H.O.I.C.E.S), Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA, The Empty Stocking Fund, Inc., United Way of Greater Atlanta, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless, and the Junior League of Atlanta.
“You never know the day or hour you will need someone,” said Parker. “It costs nothing to be kind. I have had great mentors to sow into me throughout my career. As a leader, it is my commitment and responsibility to do the same for others through mentorship and community engagement.”
As a youth, her grandmother passed the keys to success to Parker and her family.
“She instilled tenacity and business acumen in us,” said Parker. “She taught us that no matter the obstacle — you can overcome it. As long as you have your faith and write your plans down to make them a goal. You crush those goals and continue striving for greatness.”
As she reflects on her time at Alcorn, she remembers that “it was an impactful and encouraging experience.”
“It was an environment that cultivated and nurtured growth because there were no ceilings, but it also helped you manage your expectations for going out into the real world – one person may be doing 40 percent, but you have to do 120 percent. “Alcorn prepared me to go above and beyond and execute at 120 percent, said Parker.”
