Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Volunteer

Tajhonnae Boykin

Gary,IN

Summary

I’m a passionate Public Affairs student and aspiring community redevelopment leader with a strong desire to help rebuild and empower communities like my hometown of Gary, Indiana. My lived experiences growing up in an under-resourced city have shaped my commitment to creating opportunities and advocating for change. I’ve developed bold ideas for community hubs, local business support, and urban renewal, and I’m now working to bring those visions to life through planning, education, and collaboration. As someone recently accepted into a Master of Public Affairs program, I’m ready to apply my passion, leadership, and creativity in a hands-on internship where I can grow and make a meaningful impact.

Overview

2025
2025
years of professional experience

Work History

Volunteer

Volunteer

Back-to-school
08.2024 - 08.2024
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Funded to the organization in full support.
  • Provided hygiene care.

Volunteer

Salvation Army Community Center
11.2023 - 12.2023


  • Maintained clean, neat, and operational facilities to serve program needs.
  • Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
  • Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
  • Supported underprivileged families with the distribution of essential supplies, improving their living conditions.

Volunteer

Miller Dunes Beach
09.2023 - 10.2023
  • Promoted public safety through the removal of hazardous objects, such as glass shards and sharp metal pieces, from the beach area.
  • Enhanced beach cleanliness by efficiently removing debris and litter from the shorelines.
  • Coordinated with local agencies regarding disposal procedures for collected waste materials, ensuring adherence to regulations concerning environmental protection measures.
  • Assisted in organizing and participating in community beach clean-up events, promoting awareness about environmental conservation efforts.

Volunteer

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana
08.2022 - 10.2022
  • Coordinated food drives for improved local food bank stock levels.
  • Provided support to local families in need through efficient food distribution efforts.
  • Collaborated with fellow volunteers to deliver punctual, friendly service.
  • Prepared and packaged boxes during box assembly line phase.

Education

High School Diploma -

West Side Leadership Academy
Gary
06-2017

Bachelors & Master of Public Affairs - Public Affairs

Indiana University Northwest
05-2026

Skills

  • Positive attitude
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Organized and efficient
  • Problem-solving
  • Community service
  • Time management
  • Adaptability and dependability
  • Computer skills
  • Relationship building
  • Community engagement
  • Community outreach

Accomplishments

  • Accepted into the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program while completing undergraduate studies
  • Graduated with Core 40 Honors Diploma, ranked Top 10 of class
  • Held multiple leadership roles in retail: Team Lead, Key-Holder, and interim management
  • Independently launched a self-directed community improvement campaign rooted in Gary pride
  • Currently building a business/nonprofit hybrid model focused on economic opportunity and empowerment

Timeline

Volunteer

Back-to-school
08.2024 - 08.2024

Volunteer

Salvation Army Community Center
11.2023 - 12.2023

Volunteer

Miller Dunes Beach
09.2023 - 10.2023

Volunteer

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana
08.2022 - 10.2022

Volunteer

High School Diploma -

West Side Leadership Academy

Bachelors & Master of Public Affairs - Public Affairs

Indiana University Northwest

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Tajhonnae Boykin