Erica Daniels, Beloit College’s chief of staff and secretary of the college, has been named a YWCA Rock County’s Woman of Distinction for her professional achievements and community service.

The award will be presented May 10.

The honor is well deserved, says Beloit College colleague and Help Yourself Program Director Regina Hendrix.

“When Erica walks into a room, her aura exudes that of a Woman of Distinction,” Hendrix says. “Young people and elders are drawn to her spirit. Erica makes you want to do better and be better, and inspires those around her.”

Erica DanielsDaniels has served in other crucial roles on campus before her current position, first as executive administrative assistant to the Provost and Dean of the College position, then as executive administrative assistant in the President’s Office.

President Scott Bierman saw Daniels’ potential and thought she was exactly the right person to be the college’s next chief of staff.

“Her knowledge of the college, understanding of the President’s Office, and relationships with so many people within the Beloit community — both college and city — were unparalleled. But most compelling were her traits of great judgment, unquestionable integrity, sharp intellect, and kindness.”

Erica Daniels with her family.The Beloit Memorial High School grad and former Miss Beloit 2002 is a dedicated member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church, serving as a deaconess, choir member, and youth ministry co-director. She’s also on the Greater Beloit Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors and a former Visit Beloit board member. Daniels’s other joy is her family; husband, Dr. Shedrick Daniels, and four children: Christian, Madison, Morgan, and Chloe.

Students chose Daniels to give the address at the Celebration of Black Excellence on May 10 and also created a scholarship in her name.

Daniels says she is humbled to receive the award and is inspired to excel and motivate others.

“Take your position seriously, go above and beyond, and be the best in whatever your job is, because you never know who is watching and whose life you are impacting,” Daniels says.

 

Read the full story on Erica Daniels in Beloit College’s Fall 2023 magazine.