51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ

We’re delighted to feature Tiffany Payne the inspiring Vice Co-Chair of the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Women’s Council. Tiffany is the Program Manager for Lied Center for Real Estate and has been at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ for over three years. From her earliest days on campus, the Women’s Council played a pivotal role in helping her feel welcomed and supported. Now, as co-chair, she’s committed to fostering that same sense of belonging for others.

Tiffany shares her vision for growing the Women’s Council, her journey at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, and the mentors and values that have shaped her leadership. With a deep passion for empowerment and an unwavering belief in resilience, her story is a testament to the power of community and perseverance.

What inspired you to step into the role of co-chair for the council?
When I first started at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, the Women’s Council welcomed me with open arms. I loved how they made me feel during my first few years here, which inspired me to step into the role of co-chair. I wanted to be a part of the Women’s Council to help other women on campus feel welcomed and accepted.

What is your vision for the Women’s Council during your term as co-chair?
My version for the Women’s Council during my term as co-chair is to make sure other women on campus are aware of the council and to start inviting new hires to our events. I want the Women’s Council to grow about 25% more by the end of my term.

Tell us about your experience at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ.
My experience at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ has been amazing. I love how staff, faculty, and even students have made me feel welcome throughout my time at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ. The whole campus has a sense of belonging and it feels like my second home.

What is your favorite thing about working at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ?
My favorite thing about working at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is to watch the campus grow and evolve. I love seeing the positive changes happening each semester across campus. This does not only make me proud as a worker but also as an alumnus.

Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I was born and raised in Northern New Jersey. I am the youngest of seven children. As a child, I was taught how to play the piano and violin. I performed my first recital at 6 years old.

What inspires or empowers you?
I love surrounding myself with positive people. I think it is important to have a great support system within your friendship that will empower you and vice-versa. I also use a growth mindset to help me improve in areas that I am lacking. This also helps empower me to move forward after learning from my failures.

Tell us about a woman who has been a mentor to you.
My mentor would be my mother, Cydell Payne. As a child, I watched her work hard and accomplish anything she wanted. She never gave up and she encouraged me to always do my best. I admire her courage and hard work. I am where I am because of her strength and love.

If you could share one piece of advice with women striving for leadership roles, what would it be?
Do not let anyone or anything get in your way of achieving your goals in leadership. If you fail, you pick yourself up and start over. Always be resilient, stay positive, and love yourself!